A number of residents in households of buildings within the specified "restricted areas" did not answer the door when conducting enforcement actions on compulsory testing notices, the government found with reasons to believe that people were inside the units.

“According to the relevant ordinance and the authorisation from the health authorities, the Government may take legal action including removing individuals or applying to a magistrate for a warrant to break into and forcefully enter a unit,” the Home Affairs department wrote in a statement.

Those in the household units are encouraged to contact the staff on-site, or to call the Home Affairs Department's hotline (2835 1473) immediately.

The government stated it will continue to restrict all persons from entering or leaving the relevant premises and arrange for security guards to be stationed if necessary.

It will also request bailiffs to assist in cordoning off the relevant premises and will request relevant persons to be responsible for the charges incurred.