Comedian Natasha Edirisuriya, who was apprehended by the Cyber Crime Investigation Division of the Criminal Investigation Department early today, has been remanded in custody until June 07 following her court appearance.

Edirisuriya faces charges under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act, as police accuse her of making statements that incite religious hatred and disharmony in the country.

The controversial comedian, who has been a subject of intense societal discussion in recent days, was arrested at Katunayake Airport while awaiting departure for Singapore.

The arrest took place concurrently with an ongoing CID investigation concerning a similar allegation against Pastor Jerome Fernando.

During her court appearance, Edirisuriya was informed of the charges brought against her and the need for her remand in custody until June 07. The court deemed it necessary to extend her detention period pending further investigations.