A SECOND boatload of Chinese illegal immigrants is anchored off Hongkong waters and is preparing to leave for the United States within the month, according to the director of the International Maritime Bureau (IMB), Mr Eric Ellen.
The unidentified vessel is already loaded with an estimated 300 to 400 illegals.
The vessel's crew was believed to be in China recruiting more hopefuls, Mr Ellen said.
IMB officials, in the course of their investigations into piracy activities, had come across intelligence which showed the boat was preparing to leave for the US, he said.
It is believed the ship will travel to Taiwan before leaving for the US.
Mr Ellen said his investigators discovered the cargo ship had undergone renovations including the addition of beds and stoves to accommodate the human cargo.