Peruvian Police Move to Criminalize Reporting by Pressuring Journalist Karla Ramírez

September 29, 2025 – Peru – 

Peru’s National Association of Journalists (ANP) has sharply denounced the Peruvian National Police (PNP) for initiating criminal proceedings against Karla Ramírez, head of investigations for the TV program Panorama, and her reporting team.

Ramírez and her group had conducted calls to police officers and senior PNP officials as part of an investigative piece—a standard journalistic method to obtain comment and accountability. The police, however, have characterized these efforts as “harassment,” accusing her of slander and defamation. The ANP contends that these charges represent a deliberate attempt to criminalize legitimate journalism rather than address the substance of her reporting.

This is not the first time Ramírez has faced threats in her work. Previously, she reported that the PNP had allegedly devised an internal plan to attack her or her family—claims that went unanswered by relevant authorities. The ANP asserts that rather than investigating these serious allegations, the police have opted to turn the tables and target her through the courts.

The broader implications are severe. By pressing criminal charges, the PNP signals that even routine practices—like calling officials for responses—can be recast as crimes when employed by journalists. This environment not only chills investigative reporting but also signals institutional impunity for state actors who refuse transparency.

Journalistic associations and press freedom advocates have urged immediate revocation of the charges against Ramírez, stressing that democracy depends on the media’s ability to scrutinize those in power without fear of reprisals. Without safeguards, the PNP’s action risks setting a dangerous precedent: transforming critical reporting into a punishable offense in Peru.

Reference – 

Peruvian National Police announces legal action against journalist for reporting practices