Chinese Regime Slammed for Assaulting, Detaining Foreign Journalists

Overseas diplomats have slammed the Chinese regime for illegally harassing and detaining foreign journalists over the weekend.

A number of overseas reporters were targeted by Chinese police in Beijing when they tried to cover an apparent anti-government protest. Bloomberg News said one of its journalists was physically assaulted by men who appeared to be plain-clothed security guards. Voice of America reports its Beijing Bureau Chief was temporarily detained.

U.S. Ambassador Jon Huntsman issued a strong statement on Monday, saying the beatings and detentions were “unacceptable and deeply disturbing.” He asked the Chinese regime to respect the rights of foreign journalists. The European Union's delegation has also issued a similar statement.

Other media, including the Associated Press and the BBC, also reported harassment by Chinese authorities. Many had their equipment confiscated and recorded materials erased.