(1)If a seaman or apprentice deserts his ship or is absent without leave and without sufficient reason from his ship or from his duty, the master, any mate, the owner or agent of the owner of the ship may, without prejudice to any other action that may be taken against the seaman or apprentice under this Act, convey him on board his ship and may for that purpose cause to be used such force as may be reasonable in the circumstances of the case.