With reference to the Russian who tested positive for Covid-19 in Matara, Army Commander Shavendra Silva said that the National Operation Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 (NOCPC) was not informed of where the Russian passengers were placed, following their arrival.

“Normally, such returnees are placed at a designated hotel. But in this case, we were not informed,” the Army Chief said.

The Russian, who tested positive was found to have been diagnosed with the virus following the first PCR test carried out on him and two more PCR tests are to be carried out.

The Russian cargo flight with at least seven crew members arrived at the Mattala Airport on September 13 through Bangalore, India.

49 individuals including 23 employees in the hotel and 24 members of their families would be subject to self-quarantine.