Citing a Sin Chew Daily report, Gerakan Media Merdeka and the National Union of Journalists Malaysia said the alleged directive raised serious concerns over press freedom and the treatment of journalists.

“Journalism is not a crime,” they added in a joint statement.

According to the report by the Chinese daily, a female journalist was allegedly approached by two plainclothes officers who inspected her mobile phone.

They also brought her into the premises for questioning over recordings taken while a forensic team was carrying out its duties.

The journalist was then instructed to delete all photos and videos before being released a few minutes later.

An investigating officer allegedly told two other journalists to delete their recordings as well, and took photographs of their press cards.

The journalists were also allegedly warned that they would be summoned if their recordings were circulated.

It was reported earlier today that a total of 43 suspects had been nabbed in connection with rioting and vandalism at an entertainment outlet in Cheras on Monday.

The main suspect is believed to be a Chinese national who hired a group of thugs.