Samples have been taken from inmates at the Maafushi Prison on Friday to test for COVID-19.
According to Correctional Service, on Friday, samples were collected from 15 prisoners and 23 jail officers.
Security has been tightened in the prison amidst the current COVID-19 pandemic. Family visits to the inmates have been ceased, and people's movement in and out of the prison has been reduced.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has been collecting random samples in the capital Male’ region, of which some have tested positive.
Based on the present capacity, currently, 300 to 400 samples are collected per day, including random samples. Health expert Dr Sheena Moosa, who plays an advisory role to the government on COVID-19 related matters, has stated that the current testing capacity is inadequate.
Collecting samples from a prison officer
