Dolce & Gabbana in Hong Kong is mobbed by photographers after reports of a photo ban, Jan 8, 2012. [Photo/ifeng.com]

More than one thousand people protested outside a Dolce & Gabbana store in Hong Kong on Sunday after the luxury Italian clothing brand reportedly banned people taking photos of its shop front.

The demonstration began after reports said a photographer was prevented from taking an image of the fashion giant's flagship store. More than 13,000 people joined an online protest group to voice their frustration.

Dozens of police were sent to the scene and the store was forced to close as protestors demanded an apology over the alleged rule.