Beijing, Dec 27 (IANS): An official in China's Hunan province was placed under judicial investigation after a photo of him wearing a Louis Vuitton belt went viral on social media, authorities said Saturday.

Users of Weibo, China's Twitter-like microblogging website, lambasted the state-owned Rucheng county's water and electricity company' general manager, Li Jianguo, and questioned how he could afford such an extravagant accessory, Xinhua reported.

The online reactions were brought to the attention of the local Communist Party of China' disciplinary watchdog, which responded by reviewing Li's finances.

The watchdog said it suspected Li had broken the law and violated party regulations.

Other high profile officials have faced public scrutiny following the posting of photographs featuring them with luxury watches or even cigarettes on social media.

Louis Vuitton is a luxury French fashion house. It is known mainly for its anagrammed bags, belts and shoes.

A Louis Vuitton belt will cost around $300-$600.