What must an agent do when approaching a vessel that fails to respond to customs commands?

When an agent approaches a vessel that does not respond to customs commands, preparing for potential pursuit is a critical step. This response is rooted in the need to ensure both the safety of the agents and the enforcement of the law. If a vessel is unresponsive, it may indicate that it is attempting to evade authority or engage in suspicious activity.

Being prepared for pursuit involves assessing the situation carefully and being ready for possible evasive maneuvers from the vessel. This preparation ensures that the agent can take the necessary actions without putting themselves or others in danger, while also maintaining the authority of customs enforcement. This proactive approach is essential in the context of law enforcement at sea, where immediate response is vital in potentially high-stakes scenarios.

In contrast, returning to port would leave the situation unresolved, requesting additional resources may delay action, and boarding immediately could pose significant risks without understanding the vessel's intentions or status. Therefore, preparing for a potential pursuit allows the agent to maintain control over the situation while safeguarding their own safety and the integrity of the operation.