The move also prompted some residents to opt for a tit-for-tat response against the taxi industry.

He stressed that only law enforcement had the know-how needed to legally conduct such operations, as they had the necessary legal knowledge and training to handle any sudden situations.

“People who have not gone through these training sessions and have limited legal knowledge should not do this. Or else, you are at risk of breaking the law,” he said.

Lee said the Transport and Logistics Bureau’s study of online hire-car services explored the legal issues, society’s demand for point-to-point transport and overseas regulation.

The bureau would report its initial findings to the legislature after it was finished in July, he said, adding public views would be considered before the next move was decided.

Uber has been in the city since 2014, but many drivers are believed to be operating without a private car-hire permit, which is subject to a cap of 1,500.