Topic: Repentance of a Thief (Tawbah of a Thief)
✿ Repentance and Restitution
A thief is obligated to return the stolen property. The process is as follows:
① If the stolen item is still in his possession, then he must return the exact item to its rightful owner.
② If the item is no longer available, then he must return a similar item in kind and quality.
③ If no similar item exists, then he must pay the value of the stolen item.
④ If the thief is financially incapable, then—according to the correct opinion—the liability remains on him until he becomes financially able to repay.
⑤ If the owner forgives him, then that is acceptable, but repentance remains obligatory regardless of forgiveness.
Source:
[al-Lajnah al-Dāʾimah: Fatwa No. 6135]
