It is unlawful for any person, or any member, officer, agent, or employee of a firm, association, or corporation, other than the department or any of the officers mentioned in this article, to break, mutilate, or destroy any seal or seals placed upon a container, receptacle, pump, or storage tank connected thereto, or any other storage tank containing a motor vehicle fuel or lubricant, when placed thereon as provided by this article, or to move a container so sealed, or remove the contents therefrom, or to cover, deface, or remove the notice of sealing required by this article.