Yemen’s HOCC, the Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center, has denied reports claiming that the Republic of Yemen intends to impose tolls for transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait, affirming that passage is free of charge.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, the center also clarified that the services provided by the HOCC – including the Safe Transit Service for vessels – are entirely free of charge.
It noted that the Safe Transit Service is a voluntary and cost-free service offered by the HOCC to vessels/companies (falling outside the scope of the declared ban) that wish to confirm the safe transit of their vessels through the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea.
It added that shipping companies seeking added assurance could submit a Safe Transit Request through its official email address, while stressing that vessels outside the scope of the declared ban may transit safely.
The HOCC also urged shipping companies not to make any payments or provide any information to unauthorized individuals or entities.
“The HOCC categorically confirms that any individual or entity requesting the payment of money in exchange for transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait does not represent the Republic of Yemen or HOCC in any capacity whatsoever,” it said.
Furthermore, it warned against any unauthorized use of its name or logo, or any false claim of representation, for the purpose of collecting fees or other payments in connection with transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
It further called upon anyone who is asked to pay such fees to refrain from making any payment, document the incident whenever it is safe and practicable to do so, and report the matter via its email address, attaching all available details and supporting evidence that may assist in verifying the incident and taking the necessary action.
The center concluded its statement by calling on media outlets and news websites to exercise due diligence and accuracy when reporting news and information, and refrain from publishing or circulating any information concerning transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait before verifying it through the HOCC’s official channels.
