Is zakat obligatory on an inherited sum invested in purchasing land, then subjected to fraud, with only half of it recovered years later, and is it permissible to pay zakat in installments in this case?

It appears that the purchased land was intended for trade, and therefore zakat is due on it. However, its value with a procrastinating or denying partner is like a debt whose repayment is not expected. Scholars differ regarding the zakat on such wealth:

1. The view of Abu Hanifa and a narration from Ahmad: No zakat is due on it until it is received. When it is received, a new year (hawl) is started for it. 2. The view of Malik: Zakat is paid on it for one year when it is received. 3. The view of Al-Shafi'i and a narration from Ahmad: Zakat is paid on it when it is received for all past years, based on the saying of Ali (may Allah be pleased with him): "If he is truthful, then let him pay zakat on it when he receives it for what has passed."

The middle opinion is the most apparent, and according to it, zakat must be paid for one year immediately, and installment payments are not permissible.