Random Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) will be conducted on persons who live in vulnerable areas in the country to identify COVID-19 patients and treat them, Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana said.

He said such tests were conducted yesterday on those leaving the Western Province and several other areas as well.

DIG Rohana said that seven more COVID-19 cases were identified through 1,003 Rapid Antigen Tests carried on those who were leaving Western Province on Thursday.

In addition, rapid antigen test have been conducted on 600 persons in Kattankudy area and 24 persons have been identified as positive cases.

"The health authorities, along with police, are intending to conduct this type of random RATs among various working groups, especially the passengers of public transportation crew and places where the public gather," he said.

Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana said that health authorities and security forces need public support and cooperation in order to control the pandemic, especially in the year 2021.

“We should not carry on this disease in 2021 and everyone should adhere to the health rules and regulations. We had bitter memories last year since March, a period of almost 10 months,” he said.

Meanwhile, the spokesman said that more than 2,000 persons have been arrested by yesterday for not wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing in public places.

If we adhere to quarantine rules and regulations in the year 2021, we would be able to control the pandemic, he said.(Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya)