(lubavitch.com) FBI agents and police say they are investigating vandalism on the premises of Chabad of El Paso as a hate crime.

Swastikas and graffiti were found Sunday painted on the premise's playground at 6615 Westwind, and on its outdoor globe.

Windows, walls and a door of the center were smeared with graffiti.

"I think the swastikas are a direct attack on the Jewish nation," Rabbi Yisrael Greenberg said.

He said the vandals were "looking to hurt innocent people only because of them being Jewish."

FBI Special Agent Andrea Simmons said the bureau was investigating because of civil rights issues, and because the vandalism targeted a place of worship.

Police spokesman Javier Sambrano said the graffiti caused more than $8,000 damage and is a considered a felony because it was at a religious building.

Anyone with information may call the FBI at 832-5000 or Crime Stoppers of El Paso at 566-8477.

source: El Paso Times