Does returning a guaranteed animal to the ruler or his deputy discharge the finder's liability?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Lost-and-Found Property

Book 29 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If a person takes possession of an animal, thereby incurring the guarantee, and subsequently hands it over to the Imam (ruler) or his representative, the liability for guarantee is lifted from him. This is because the ruler has authority regarding lost property belonging to the people, evidenced by his right to take custody of such items, thereby acting as a representative for the owners.