Supporters attacked reporters in Brasilia, journalist group says

BRASILIA, BRAZIL - JANUARY 08: Supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro clash with security forces as they raid the National Congress in Brasilia, Brazil, 08 January 2023. Groups shouting slogans demanding intervention from the army broke through the police barrier and entered the Congress building, according to local media. Police intervened with tear gas to disperse pro-Bolsonaro protesters. Some demonstrators were seen climbing onto the roofs of the House of Representatives and Senate buildings. (Photo by Joedson Alves/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

At least five journalists were attacked when supporters of Brazil’s former leader Jair Bolsonaro stormed major government buildings in the capital Brasilia on Sunday, according to the Brazilian Investigative Journalism Association (ABRAJI).

Some reporters also had their equipment stolen by Bolsonaro supporters, it added.

Among them was a photographer who was assaulted by protesters shouting they would “take over Brazil,” the statement said.

The association has recorded 77 attacks of political violence against the media in the country in the past two years “without the government and security forces taking adequate measures” to address violence by far-right groups, the statement added.