KOCHI: The Tripunithura Hill Palace Police registered a case and started an investigation after a youth from Eroor complained about the 'I love you Pakistan' tag and flag seen on the balloon bought for his son's birthday celebration.

The balloon was brought from a shop run by a Kasaragod native in Tripunithura’s Chelakavazhi. This shop and the adjacent shop started by a native of Aluva Uliyannoor were closed following the incident. BJP workers held a protest here on Tuesday evening.

The balloons and other items for the celebration were purchased for this shop on Monday evening. Upon reaching home and inflating the balloon, the family were surprised to see the Pakistan tag and the uncanny praise for the rival nation. A flag of the country was also found along with the items purchased. The youth immediately informed the police about the incident.

Police jumped into action and seized the balloons stored inside the shops. The trader stated that the balloons were bought in bulk from Kunnamkulam. Police said the balloon packet did not contain the manufacturer's information. No case has been registered yet.