Army Commander Lt. General Shavendra Silva said the COVID19 risk was still prevalent in Sri Lanka.

Addressing a conference, Silva said 89 returnees were tested positive for COVID19 during the past three days.

"Foreigners who arrive on the island for essesntial work and Sri Lankan returnees could be carriers of the disease. So, it is very important to continue social distancing measures and other safety standards," he added.

However, no COVID19 patient has been reported from the community since April 30.

The government has decided to repatirate Sri Lankans in a "phased manner" due to the high number of COVID19 cases among returnees.