 According to local news reports, the assailants work for the government-owned broadcaster AvilaTV.Government officials, including President Chávez, have reportedly accused the 12 journalists who were attacked of being 'provocative' and taking a 'political stand,' leading them to fear action that the Attorney General may take action against them".César Batiz investigated the assassination of journalist Orel Sambrano, who at the time of his murder had been writing columns about the rise in drug trafficking, and has written (in collaboration with Jesus Yajure) about the failure of police to arrest suspects in the killing of journalist, film producer, and entrepreneur Jacinto Lopez.