Taking something unrightfully and the inability to return it to its owner

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Q 4: What should someone do if he is in possession of something which does not belong to him and cannot return it or its value to the owner because the object has been used or damaged; or because he does not know who the owner is. Is it permissible to give its value in Sadaqah (voluntary charity) on behalf of the owner?

A: Whoever has money that belongs to someone and cannot locate the person or by any means repay him or his inheritors, such money should be given in Sadaqah on behalf of its owner. In case that the owner, or any one who represents the inheritors, claims the money; it should be paid to them and the reward of Sadaqah will go to the person who gave it. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.