According to customs law, what must be done in the absence of direction from the Secretary of DHS?

In customs law, when there is no specific directive from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the appropriate action is to ensure that customs officer activities are supervised by the principal customs field officer. This hierarchy is crucial for maintaining organized and effective customs operations. The principal customs field officer is responsible for overseeing and guiding officers in their duties, ensuring compliance with regulations and protocols required for maintaining border security and facilitating lawful trade.

By following this procedure, customs officers can operate within an established framework, which helps prevent misinterpretation of laws and ensures that all activities align with broader enforcement strategies. This oversight promotes consistency in enforcement and decision-making, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of customs operations.

The other options do not provide the structured and systematic approach that is vital in the absence of specific directives. Relying solely on personal judgment could lead to inconsistencies in enforcement, while not submitting reports or following outdated procedures would undermine the effectiveness and responsiveness of customs operations. Therefore, supervision by the principal customs field officer is the most appropriate course of action in the absence of direction from the Secretary of DHS.