CPJ calls on Peruvian authorities to investigate attacks against journalists covering protests

Bogotá, September 23, 2025—Peruvian authorities must investigate police violence against 16 journalists covering anti-government demonstrations in Lima, the capital, and take steps to ensure press members can safely report on critical matters of public interest, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Tuesday.

Police officers shot rubber pellets, tear gas, and threw rocks as they sought to disperse protests on September 20 and 21 against President Dina Boluarte, according to a report by the National Association of Journalists of Peru (ANP) that said officers also blocked escape routes and confiscated reporters’ phones.

“Journalists covering demonstrations should never be targeted as they were by police forces this weekend in Lima,” said Cristina Zahar, Latin America program coordinator, in São Paulo. “We urge Peruvian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into these alarming attacks on the press and ensure that those responsible are held to account.”

ANP reported that at least seven journalists were wounded by the rubber pellets, including Exitosa Noticias reporter Jahaira Pacheco and camera operator Percy Grados, who were treated for leg wounds at a local hospital. 

Freelance photographer Juan Mandamiento, César Zamalloa, a photographer for the magazine Hildebrandt en sus Trece, Diego Quispe, a reporter for the Ojo Público news website, and Reuters journalists Anthony Marina and Néstor Galarza also sustained injuries from the pellets fired by police, according to the ANP. 

CPJ’s email seeking comment from the press department of the Peruvian National Police did not immediately receive a reply.