Until recently, gambling in the area was controlled by tongs. In 1985, it became apparent that new Asian gangs, primarily Chinese and Vietnamese, were emerging and getting a foothold in prostitution, drug trafficking, extortion, and gaming. Through confidential informants, it became apparent that these gangs had a criminal network that crossed State and international lines. As a result, an information exchange network was established that included State, Federal, and local agencies, as well as enforcement agencies in Canada. While not eliminated, the rising tide of Asian gangs in Boston is fairly under control and these dangerous organizations have been deterred from expansion. Photographs.