(a) who, being aware of the desertion or intended desertion of a person, does not without reasonable excuse inform his superior officer forthwith, or
(b) who fails to take any steps in his power to cause the apprehension of a person known by him to be a deserter,
is guilty of an offence against military law and shall, on conviction by court-martial, be liable to suffer imprisonment or any less punishment awardable by a court-martial.
