Hull of a job: A Marine officer demonstrates the new tamper-resistant numbering system for vessels

Rather than conventional surface painting, the licence number is permanently marked onto the hull in rugged form using layers of dye and fibreglass adhesive for better durability and to prevent re-painting.

The new method received support from fishermen when it was introduced by Marine Police through a series of talks and seminars which started last month.

Speaking at a demonstration of the new anti-theft measure on June 9, Marine Port District Commander Kong Shing-shun said the Marine Regional Crime Prevention Office initiative would help thwart the increasing thefts of vessels, particularly sampans.

Some 27 sampan thefts were reported last year compared to just nine in 1998, and 15 cases were reported in the first five months of this year. Suspects usually paint on false licence numbers to evade detection.

"Licence numbers can be marked permanently on fibre glass sampans using the Marine Police initiative, thereby making the usual modus operandi less feasible. It is a simple and cost-effective crime preventive measure and all the materials can be purchased from shops selling chemical products," Mr Kong said.

He added Marine Police would continue stringent enforcement action combating crime at sea, such as through a new work improvement team to help curb thefts of sampans and outboard motors.



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