Arrest of stand-up comedian; those who attended to be questioned by police

Those who attended the stand-up comedy event that featured Nathasha Edirisooriya where she made derogatory remarks on Buddhism to be questioned following the arrest of the comedian yesterday by police. 

Police spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa told media today that as part of ongoing investigations that are being carried out by the Cyber Crimes Investigation Unit of the CID, those who attended the comedy event will also be inquired in order to record statements. 

Stand-up comedian  Nathasha Edirisooriya who was arrested yesterday over derogatory remarks on Buddhism remanded till June 7 by Colombo Fort Magistrate Court.

Ms Edirisooriya was taken into custody by the Criminal Investigation Department of the Police yesterday at Bandaranaike International Airport when was scheduled to leave for Singapore.

Police informed the Court that denigratory remarks made by the comedian pose a significant threat to ethnic and religious harmony in the country and levelled charges under International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. 

After footage of her stand-up comedy when viral, Ms Edirisooriya tendered a public apology through social media platforms regretting the remarks. 

Meanwhile, Ven. Rajangane Saddharathana Thero was taken into custody by police in Anuradhapura today morning as well over his remarks which police said could disrupt ethnic harmony in the country.