The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) is investigating an incident allegedly involving a physical altercation between a member of its staff and one of its vendors.

The incident took place at the Community Shield between reigning S-League champions Albirex Niigata and Tampines Rovers at the National Stadium on Feb 26.

More than 15,000 fans turned out to watch the first time two S-League sides played each other at the rebuilt Kallang venue.

But amid the cheers in the stands, a scuffle broke out between a videographer and an FAS media officer before the season's curtain raiser.

An FAS spokesman confirmed that one of its staff had been involved in a physical altercation, saying in a statement: "The Football Association of Singapore is committed to providing a safe environment for our staff and volunteers, and we do not condone any form of abuse, violence or aggression against them."

It is investigating how its media officer, Dominic Leong, was embroiled in the altercation with video producer Nick Tan, who manages his own company, Nick of Time Productions, which is also an S-League vendor.

The spokesman said: "As per our standard operating procedure, we immediately commenced an investigation of the incident, and will not hesitate to take the necessary actions upon the conclusion of our investigations.

"As investigations are ongoing, it would not be appropriate for us to comment further."

The Straits Times understands that Tan has been suspended from covering S-League games until the completion of the FAS' disciplinary committee investigation.

ST also understands that the scuffle was sparked by a dispute over a media pass for the Community Shield for one of Tan's videographers, who was denied entry to the match as she lacked the appropriate media accreditation to cover the game.

Leong and Tan got into an argument and it is believed that at least one punch was thrown.

When contacted, Tan declined comment.

The incident soured a thrilling game that saw Albirex beat Tampines 2-1.

But the match also had its heated moments that saw three Stags players sent off.

Tampines captain Madhu Mohana, midfielder Yasir Hanapi and defender Ismadi Mukhtar all received their marching orders from referee Sukhbir Singh.

Centre-back Madhu was later fined by his club for voicing his displeasure with the referee on social media.

The Singapore national team defender also met S-League officials last week to explain his remarks.