Every person subject to this Act who, knowing that any other person subject thereto has deserted, absented himself without leave, or improperly left his ship or place, of duty, or is attempting to desert, to absent himself without leave or improperly to leave his ship or place of duty.—
(a)fails to report the fact without delay; or
(b)fails to take any steps within his power to cause that person to be apprehended,
shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or any less punishment authorised by this Act.