The Correctional Services Department tonight said it was notified that the results for the 7,000 inmates arranged to take the COVID-19 test have all come back negative.

The department had arranged for all those in custody to take the virus test since September 7, after two detainees - one transferred from Pik Uk Prison to Castle Peak Bay Immigration Centre and the other at Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre - earlier tested positive.

It noted that five inmates refused to provide specimens despite repeated explanations and advice from the institutional management and the medical officers seconded from the Department of Health.

They were separated for observation in order to break hidden transmission chains and ensure the other inmates' health and safety.

Additionally, the department is arranging for correctional officers at the institutions concerned to take the virus test, and expects to complete specimen collection this week.