Unauthorised removal of goods

If any goods which are hereafter imported are removed from any ship, wharf or other place previous to examination by the proper officer of customs, except under the supervision of an officer of customs, or with an authority in writing from such officer and for such purpose as is therein expressed, and in due conformity therewith, every person who assists or is in anyway concerned in the removal or knowingly harbours, keeps or conceals, or knowingly permits or suffers to be harboured, kept or concealed, any such goods, or to whose hands or possession any such goods knowingly come, shall forfeit for each and every such several offence either the treble value of the goods or be liable to a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars at the election of the Comptroller.