British comedian – and Katy Perry’s fiancée - Russell Brand faces battery charges after being arrested at Los Angeles International Airport for his involvement in an altercation with a photographer, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Brand allegedly hit a photographer who was following him and his fiancee through the airport. The as-yet-unnamed photographer reportedly made a citizens arrest after the “Get Him To The Greek” star allegedly hit him, LAPD officials told the LA newspaper.

Perry later hinted via Twitter that the photographer’s behaviour was out of order. “If you cross the line & try an put a lens up my dress, my fiancé will do his job & protect me.” She added the hash-tags “standbyyourman” and “don'tf**kwiththeBrands”.

The couple had met to celebrate their one-year anniversary together, and were at the airport to catch a flight to Las Vegas, which they subsequently missed due to the altercation.

Officers reportedly interviewed Brand before taking him into custody, where he was booked for a misdemeanor charge of simple battery with bail set at $20,000, according airport police officials. Brand was later released on his own recognizance, police said, and a court date has been set for October 15.

Brand, via his Twitter account [rustyrockets], today said, “Thanks for your sweet messages of support. After the tips I picked up in chokey I'm an infinitely more proficient criminal.”