Regulator voices 'concern' for detained reporter Chen Yongzhou

A central government department has taken a rare step regarding the plight of a journalist, voicing concern over the detention of reporter Chen Yongzhou.

Comments by officials from the State General Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television that it was "very concerned" for Chen came days after he was taken into criminal detention by police from Changsha, in Hunan following the publication in the New Express of articles he wrote alleging fraud at construction-equipment maker Zoomlion, based in Changsha.

"The administration would staunchly support normal media reporting and safeguard journalists' legitimate and legal rights in conducting their reporting work," the China Press and Publishing Journal cited an official as saying. "We are also against any abuse of press rights."

And in a second surprise move, the All-China Journalists Association requested that the Ministry of Public Security ensure Chen's safety and handle the matter in a "fair and legal" manner.

The Journal, an official newspaper directly administered by the administration, issued the report online late last night.

The association had already taken the unusual step earlier yesterday of urging the Hunan authorities to investigate Chen's detention.