Police are investigating a group of Chinese nationals for rioting after they were suspected of attacking a police officer in Pudu last night.

According to Dang Wangi district police chief Shaharudin Abdullah (photo), a police officer had conducted a check at a premise along Jalan Abraham.

This was after a group of seven police officers were alerted that a group of workers were gambling.

"While the officer was conducting checks in front of the house along Jalan Abraham, he was attacked by a group of 20 to 30 people who were believed to be citizens of China.

"The situation became out of control and the officer released four warning shots in self-defence," he said in a statement.

The incident was reported to the police district headquarters at 10.36pm, after which several patrol cars were sent to the scene. No injuries were reported.

He said the houses along Jalan Abraham were used to house China workers.

When contacted, Shahrudin told Malaysiakini there was a "communication breakdown" with the China workers.

He said 68 Chinese nationals were detained at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters, but 60 have since been released this morning after being documented.

"Eight more are detained for further investigation," he said.

He said the eight were being investigated under Section 147 under the Penal Code for rioting, and Section 353 for using criminal force to deter a public servant from discharging his duty.

The case is also being investigated under Section 6 of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953.