Mosque in France Vandalized with Pig Head Graffiti

A mosque in Cherbourg, northwestern France, was vandalized with pig head graffiti, marking the second attack on the region’s Muslim community within a week, Daily Sabah reported. The Turkish-Islamic Union of Religious Affairs (DITIB) reported the incident, which occurred on Monday, January 28.

DITIB condemned the “unacceptable action” and reaffirmed its commitment to respect and humanity. Just days prior, a plaster grenade was found outside another DITIB mosque in Saint-Omer. Similar vandalism occurred last year during Ramadan when a pig’s head was left at the same location.

Saint-Omer’s mayor, François Decoster, denounced the “heinous” act and assured the Franco-Turkish community of local support. An investigation has been launched, and the mayor promised enhanced security measures, including video surveillance around places of worship.

Vandalism and harassment of mosques in Western Europe have surged in recent years, fueled by far-right propaganda and rising Islamophobia, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions.