CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) - President Hugo Chavez accused Venezuela’s media on Sunday of trying to undermine him and threatened to take swift and stern measures against television networks, radio stations and newspapers that cause trouble.

Chavez said privately owned media are inciting hatred among Venezuelans and even conspiring against his government by trying to spur military rebellions and assassinations attempts. He appeared to be directing his comments at Globovision - the last TV channel broadcast on the regular airwaves that remains fiercely critical of the government.

The socialist leader said media outlets would "get a surprise" if such actions continue.

"You are playing with fire, manipulating, inciting hate and much more. All of you: television networks, radio stations, papers," Chavez said during his weekly television and radio program, "Hello President."

"Don’t make a mistake with me," he added.

The president’s accusations came three days after the state-run telecommunications regulator, Conatel, began investigating Globovision for allegedly "inciting panic and anxiety within the population."

The investigations, which could result in a hefty fine or temporary shutdown, stems from the channel’s coverage of an earthquake that rattled Venezuela’s capital May 4.

Unable to reach authorities at Venezuela’s seismological agency immediately after the moderate pre-dawn quake, Globovision gave viewers information about the 5.4 magnitude quake it got from the U.S. Geological Survey. Meanwhile, the network’s director, Alberto Federico Ravell, criticized what he called a sluggish reaction from government officials.