Godfather-style horse's head left for Italian politician

A horse’s head has been found outside the office of an Italian politician, in a scene reminiscent of The Godfather.

An anonymous call alerted police to the macabre discovery which outside deputy mayor Vincenzo Pomes’ office in Osturni, near Bari. Mr Pomes, a centre left politician, said: “There is no explanation for such a stupid act. I have no idea why anyone would make such a horrific gesture. I don’t think it’s a warning with regard to my political life or private life.

“It’s obviously the gesture of a madman to embarrass me and the town of Ostuni. I am not afraid but obviously my wife and family have been left upset.”

Police said they were keeping an open mind and were also examining two shotgun cartridges found at the scene. They were also trying to trace the slaughterhouse where the horse was killed - horse meat is a delicacy in Italy.