The ANC has apologised to journalists covering its policy conference for unwarranted police treatment on Wednesday.

Minister of Justice Jeff Radebe said the ANC would ensure that such an incident did not happen again.

Shortly after delegates went for lunch, policemen - brought in to manage security at the venue - confiscated a camera from Mail & Guardian photographer Oupa Nkosi while he was trying to take pictures.

Nkosi said the police also tookhis media accreditation card and deleted photographs from his camera.

Radebe said the ANC regretted the incident.

"It is not our plan not to allow journalists to photograph and speak to members of the ANC in this policy conference," he said.

Journalists have experienced difficulties in accessing the venue because of the tight security.

ANC spokesman Jackson Mthembu said: "Even ANC [head office Luthuli House] security at times do things that amaze us."