The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word OBSERVERS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
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More clues leading to the result OBSERVERS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Paper’s/reporters" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case paper’s/reporters = observers.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does OBSERVERS mean?
OBSERVERS noun- One who makes observations, monitors or takes notice
- One who adheres or follows laws, guidelines, etc.
- A person sent as a representative, to a meeting or other function to monitor but not to participate
- A country or other entity which has limited participation rights within an organization.
- A crew member on an aircraft who makes observations of enemy positions or aircraft
- A sentry etc. manning an observation post