By AP/KWMU

Lima, Peru – Members of a St. Louis University research team were assaulted by an angry mob in Peru but no one was injured.

The researchers are studying the impact of toxic emissions in La Oroya, an Andean town where St. Louis-based Doe Run Company operates a metallurgical plant.

A St. Louis University spokesman says the town's police are now escorting the researchers during their time there.

A legal adviser with a Peruvian archdiocese says the attackers believe the study will result in the closing of the smelter, the town's main employer.

Doe Run, in a statement, condemned the attack, saying the company respects SLU's interest in studying health issues in the town.

"We support constructive dialogue and peaceful interaction," noted company President and CEO Jeffrey Zelms.

"Doe Run Peru remains committed to improving health and environmental conditions in La Oroya, always with the community's consent and respecting the government's authority and responsibility in these matters,"

Send questions and comments about this story to feedback@stlpublicradio.org.