Is it permissible to donate money taken unlawfully from the government for the construction of a mosque or other charitable projects, if returning it through official channels would expose the individual to danger? And would such an act absolve one of sin?

It is obligatory to return the wealth that was taken to its owner, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "On the hand is what it took until it returns it." There is no difference in this regard between public funds and private funds. Indeed, some scholars believe that the sanctity of public funds is even greater.

The important thing is for the right to reach its rightful owners by any means, and confession of guilt is not necessary if there is a fear of harm resulting from it.

So, if it is possible to return the money to the entity from which it was taken, even by indirect means, then that is obligatory. Otherwise, it can be given as charity to the poor and needy, or spent on public interests such as building mosques.