For the first time, the U.S. Navy will offer rewards to anybody who provide information that results in the discovery of unauthorised maritime activities or the seizure of unlawful cargo in Middle Eastern waters.
The first-of-its-kind programme, established by the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), could potentially reward tips that assist counterterrorism operations or help U.S. naval forces successfully seize illicit cargo, such as illegal weapons or drugs, with a maximum $100,000 cash payout or non-monetary items, like boats, vehicles, food, or equipment.
U.S. citizens are not eligible for rewards under the program.
“Launching this program represents another example of our commitment to this region and its security,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of NAVCENT, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “This also enhances our vigilance and supports counterterrorism efforts, which are essential to safeguarding the free flow of commerce.”
Last year, illicit cargo seizures in the Middle East skyrocketed after U.S. and multinational forces increased patrols in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
U.S. 5th Fleet warships seized nearly 9,000 illicit weapons, three times the amount seized in 2020. Additionally, the U.S.-led Combined Maritime Forces seized illegal drugs worth $500 million in street value, a higher amount than the previous four years combined.
The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The region is comprised of 21 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al-Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.
In order to receive the reward, tips need to meet specific criteria under the Department of Defense Rewards Program. Tips can be reported by calling +973 3914-5845 or online by going to https://dodrewardsprogram.net.
