THE policy under which boat people stopped in Hong Kong waters are given food, water and fuel if they want to go elsewhere is under review.
The rethink comes as it appears increasing numbers of Vietnamese gangs plundering vessels are exploiting the rules.
The rise in Vietnamese-related crimes has also prompted Marine Police to seek legal advice on pursuing, arresting and charging those operating in and around Hong Kong.
While it is unlikely the rules, known as the Millport Policy, will be scrapped, they may be modified.
Since June last year, Vietnamese operating in small boats from a mother ship in Chinese waters have used the policy against police intercepting them on suspicion of committing crimes.
Security Branch officials are looking at ways of overcoming the problem without withdrawing the policy or jeopardising the port of first asylum.
Of the 55 robbery cases reported in the police's marine region last year, 19 were attributed to Vietnamese and 92 people arrested, more than double the number in 1994. Half those detained were Vietnamese.
