At least 14 Salvadoran reporters and photographers were harassed and attacked with stones, sticks, and pepper spray during violent July 5-7 street protests against increases in electric and public transportation fees in San Salvador. Violence erupted after police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Protesters wearing red shirts identifying them as FMLN supporters were seen attacking journalists in at least two instances, CPJ research shows. FMLN leaders condemned the violence but said the acts were committed by elements outside its party. Protesters told some of the journalists that they were being targeted as alleged supporters of the "right-wing" Salvadoran government.

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