Special operations to implement Travel Restriction

COLOMBO (News 1st): Special operations will be conducted to apprehend those who act in violation of the island-wide travel restriction that is currently in effect, Sri Lanka Police said. "During this period, Police are conducting constant mobile patrols in order to apprehend the law-breakers. Therefore, obey the quarantine rules and regulations. Stay at home," Police Spokesperson DIG Ajith Rohana told News 1st on Saturday (May 22). The island-wide travel restriction came into effect at 11:00 PM on Friday (May 21) and will remain in effect until 4:00 AM on Tuesday (May 25). The island-wide travel restriction will once again be re-imposed at 11:00 PM on the 25th of May and thereafter, it will remain in effect until 4:00 AM on Friday (May 28). "The public movement is restricted, public transport services will not operate, taxis are not permitted to operate, all shops must remain closed," Police Spokesperson DIG Ajith Rohana further noted. However, pharmacies will be permitted to remain open while the travel restriction is in effect, noted the Deputy Police Chief adding that, "Also, in case of an emergency, people are to visit the nearest hospital without any permission." Whilst emphasizing that everyone must adhere to the restriction order, the Deputy Police Chief noted that essential services such as healthcare, food, pharmaceutical drugs, the services of water, electricity, fuel, power, and energy, airports and ports can operate while the travel restriction is in effect. Moreover, the services in respect of disaster management, import and export services, and factories could continue operations during the travel restriction period, the Police Spokesperson noted.