Every person subject to naval law who
without being guilty of desertion improperly leaves his ship or place of duty 1[or any place where he is
required to be] or is absent without leave shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may
extend to two years or such other punishment as is hereinafter mentioned and shall also be punished by
such mulcts of pay and allowances as may be prescribed.
1. Ins by Act 53 of 1974, s. 11 (w.e.f. 16-12-1974).