Is prior knowledge of the individual's habit of returning escaped slaves a condition for entitlement to the reward?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Lost-and-Found Property
Primary text
There is no distinction; the reward is due whether the person returning the slave is known for the practice of returning fugitives or not. This is the position of the Companions of Ra'y. The supporting evidence includes the general hadith and traditions mentioned, which do not specify a prior reputation.
Supporting text
Malik required that the person must be known for returning escaped slaves to be entitled to the reward; otherwise, the reward is not due.