At last you discuss the subject - congratulations.
So you state there is no law - it does seem that way.
However the thread has thrown up a query over some ports overseas and that is a legitimate concern for everyone to not assume that all ports are the same.
I would say it insane to tow a MoBo with engines not working, by force, against the wishes of the skipper out of a harbour to be dumped outside does not fit with the types of harbour you describe.