What is the ruling on disposing of computer devices that their owners leave for many years in the maintenance shop without claiming them, and with whom it is impossible to communicate?
If the owners of the devices are completely unknown and cannot be reached, their money should be placed in public interests for Muslims, or given as charity on their behalf, because the unknown is like the non-existent. This is indicated by the of the lost item and the consensus of Muslims regarding the wealth of one who has no heir. Therefore, withholding or destroying these funds is forbidden. They must be spent on acts of righteousness and devotions. So, whoever has the devices can place them in a public interest, or sell them and give the price in charity on behalf of the owner, while it is permissible to take the deserved compensation from the price.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 154359
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- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy