Frontline perspective: 'We're fighting an invisible enemy'

Sometimes, the tests cannot be completed on schedule, the team members have to work for as long as 14 straight hours. But no one complains, Luk said.

He said Disciplined Services members have tons of experience in handling large-scale public activities and carrying out emergency tasks, which make them suitable for mass testing operations.

Having organized a similar volunteer effort in 2020, Luk was confident that they could overcome any difficulties, although they had to deal from time to time with residents dissatisfied with being grounded while the tests were ongoing.

Compounding the stressful work conditions was the increasingly frequency of the testing operations as the infections spread exponentially in February.

Luk said it has strained their manpower significantly as new restricted areas were announced almost every day.

In the past three days, over 30 building blocks were ordered cordoned off for compulsory testing, according to data from the government.

With more and more building needing to be cordoned off, manpower had to be reduced for each mission, increasing the workload for each group, Luk said.

He added that over 10 team members have also tested positive for COVID-19.

But despite all the difficulties, these Disciplined Services volunteers remained determined to serve.

"Many people told me that they felt more energetic and rejuvenated after they participated in this job," Luk said. "I want to thank every one of our team members for their unceasing help."