The Peruvian Press Council condemned the violence suffered against at least ten journalists during the demonstrations held in Lima and in various parts of the country during the day of protest held on Tuesday, February 5, against the presidential management of Pedro Castillo.
Through a statement, it indicates that the attacks took place since Monday, April 4, for which said organization “is in solidarity with them and demands that the National Police of Peru investigate the facts and prosecute and punish the guilty.”
It also states that, on April 4, 5 and 6, violent demonstrators in the Ica region threatened, harassed and physically beat journalists from América TV, channel N, La República, ATV, Dunas TV, Canal 13, Panamericana, TV Perú and Latina, who covered the events.
YOU CAN SEE: Protest against Castillo: cameras record acts of vandalism on public and private property
“Some of them suffered theft of personal items and work tools. Others had to seek protection in shops and hotels in the area. The protesters sought to prevent journalists from recording acts of vandalism that keep the South Pan-American highway blocked”, refers.
In addition, it is mentioned that the day before, when citizens peacefully demonstrated in the center of Lima in rejection of the imposed curfew, “a mob attacked journalists that covered the facts.
“The Peruvian Press Council condemns all kinds of violence against journalistsprofessionals that citizens depend on for information in this crisis situation”, he adds.
YOU CAN SEE: Protesters used racist phrases against President Pedro Castillo to ask for his resignation
The ANP joins
On the other hand, yesterday the National Association of Journalists of Peru (ANP) also condemned the attacks on journalists covering protests in Lima. He also rejected any act that threatens the integrity of men and women of the press by protesters and law enforcement officials. “We remember that the right to protest does not cover violence in any of its forms. Even worse when police officers who should guarantee the safety of our colleagues become the aggressors, as can be seen in images recorded at the scene of the events, ”she said in a statement.
The union of press men also warned that citizens have the full right to express their collective feelings, but added that this should not go beyond natural channels.
“Indignation does not justify any act that intimidates reporters or media personnel. Likewise, police officers who make disproportionate use of force must be identified and punished.”
YOU CAN SEE: Protests in Lima: which institutions were vandalized during the demonstrations?
IPYS rejects attack on reporter in Ica
The Press and Society Institute condemned the acts of violence against journalists and demanded that the police provide security and guarantees to the América Televisión team so that they can continue their work without endangering their integrity.
The journalistic team was cornered and threatened. Thanks to the help of hotel staff, they managed to take shelter in a room, where they still remain.
According to journalists, the demonstration is overwhelmed and the police cannot cope with the violence.
