An investigation has been launched after a police officer forced a journalist to delete a photo of an operation carried out on Sunday night.

Police said an inquiry was initiated after receiving a complaint that an officer had demanded the photo to be deleted.

"Since we have received a complaint of such an allegation, we are investigating the matter," police said.

Adhadhu understands that the photo was taken by a journalist who had the press card. Police repeatedly threatened the journalist and forced him to delete the picture.

"Even when he told them about the press card, they demanded the photo be deleted. They said they didn't want to see if he had the press card. They also threatened that it would be considered obstructing police duty if the journalist refuses to delete the photo," a source with information on the matter said.

The law allows all citizens to take photos in public places. Journalists also have the right to take pictures in public spaces apart from banned areas.