HKJA and FCC strongly condemn violence against Hong Kong journalists by mainland authorities during Wukan crackdown

We strongly condemn Chinese public security officers’ violent treatment of Hong Kong journalists reporting on the confrontation between public security officers and villagers in Wukan, Lufeng, Guangdong.

We call on the Hong Kong government to look into the matter and take effective measures to protect the rights and safety of journalists working in the mainland.

At least five journalists and photographers from Ming Pao, SCMP and HK01 were beaten and removed by plain clothes policemen from their hideout in Wukan where villagers have been protesting against unfair land acquisition.

Troops of policemen have been sent in to muster the protest resulting in more than 70 arrests so far.

The journalists were held in custody for six hours until they had signed statement promising not to report on Wukan protest in the future and were returned to Hong Kong unwillingly.

Press Freedom Committee

Thursday, 15 September 2016