Mexico: 172 attacks against journalists and media in 2011

Mexico: 172 attacks against journalists and media in 2011

2012-03-21 09:42:22 GMT+7 (ICT)

MEXICO CITY (BNO NEWS) -- In 2011, at least 172 attack were carried out against Mexican journalists and media, according to press rights group Article 19.

The report, called 'Forced Silence: the State, accomplice to the violence against the press,' showed that last year was one of the most violent years for media outlets in Mexico, where nine journalists were killed and two others went missing. All of the attack were apparently carried out due to the journalists' work.

In addition, two media workers were killed, while at least eight attacks were carried out with firearms or explosives against media offices, the group said, as it criticized the governments' participation to protect the press and freedom of expression.

"In the best scenario, journalists at risk have been protected inadequately," the group said in a statement. "In the worst scenario, the same officials in charge of investigating and procuration of justice are the ones behind the action against the freedom of press rights," adding that in some cases, ruling out possible attacks against journalists and even accusing them of crimes without properly initiating proper investigations.

The highest number of attacks against journalists and media outlets were carried out in the state of Veracruz with 29, representing a 200 percent increase, followed by Mexico City, 21, Chihuahua and Coahuila with 15, and Oaxaca, 11.

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