A Balkans media watchdog has condemned death threats and intimidation aimed at Croatian journalists after they reported pro-Nazi chants by fans in Split. The incident followed last week222 Hajduk Split match against Dutch side Ajax, with local media citing footage and reports of antisemitic and pro-Nazi slogans during a march through the coastal town. Croatia leaders, opposition parties, rights groups and the Jewish community condemned the chants, and Israel embassy in Zagreb said it was deeply shocked. Police have charged 23 people suspected of inciting violence and hatred. Hajduk Split supporters known as the Torcida and right-wing politicians accused journalists of fuelling media hysteria and running a campaign against the club fans. Abuse then spread online, with some commenters labelling journalists as worms and traitors, describing them as the greatest evil in Croatian society, and calling for them to be killed. A banner also circulated on social media depicting journalists from five major local outlets hanging from a tree. The Safe Journalists Network, in a statement on Tuesday, condemned an escalating campaign of threats, intimidation and incitement to violence against journalists in Croatia, calling on authorities to act quickly to protect them. The Croatian Journalists Association demanded urgent action by police and prosecutors. Interior Minister Davor Bozinovic said an investigation into the messages has been launched. Police action is under way after the charges, with 23 people charged over suspected incitement. The watchdog is still calling for protections as the message investigation continues.