The remand order police obtained against 23 youths arrested in connection with last Friday's anti-goods and services tax rally has been extended by a day till tomorrow, according to Lawyers for Liberty (LFL)

In a series of tweets today, LFL said the 23, who on May 2 were remanded for three days, were due to be released today.

"We have been contacting the IO (investigating officer) and we were initially informed this morning that they will be released.

"However, at 10am, we were informed that they intend on keeping them once more and will apply for remand," LFL tweeted.

The organisation has mobilised three lawyers to defend the 23.

One of the three lawyers representing the youths, Chan Yen Hui, told Malaysiakini that police had initially filed to extend the remand by two days.

"The reason (for extension) is to complete the investigations. The IO asked for two days so he can interview the public, including security guards, and do an ID parade," Chan said when contacted.

The lawyers objected to this, and the magistrate ruled that remand would only be extended for one more night.

"However (the judge) didn't specify what time they would be released," Chan said.

The 23 are being investigated under Section 143 of Penal Code for unlawful assembly, and under Section 4 of the Corrosive and Explosive Substances and Offensive Weapons Act.

Police had seized several smoke bombs from the group after they were detained last Friday.

According to Chan, among the 23 were fresh graduates, as well as professionals, including engineers.

They were detained by police, allegedly while they were hanging out, after a 15,000-strong rally against the GST in downtown Kuala Lumpur last Friday.