All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah.
The practice known as “Al-Taqaf” has no basis in Islamic law. It has been described as involving the writing of two pieces of paper: one is placed at the location of the theft, and the other in an abandoned grave. These are among the practices of sorcerers and charlatans.
Even if this practice does not involve placing anything in graves, there is no evidence in Islamic law that writing Quranic verses on a piece of paper and placing it at the location of a theft will lead to the return of stolen property. Rather, such practices may constitute deception, superstition, and seeking assistance from the jinn.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Indeed, incantations, amulets, and love charms are acts of shirk.”
Narrated by Abu Dawud and Ahmad.
A Muslim must seek help from Allah Almighty and supplicate to Him to return what has been lost, while also taking lawful and legitimate measures, such as reporting the theft to the police and seeking assistance from those who may help locate the stolen property.
It has been reported from Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with them both) that the following supplication may be recited when something is lost:
“O Allah, the Restorer of what is lost, the Guide of those who have gone astray, You guide people away from misguidance. Return my lost property to me by Your might and authority, for it is from Your bounty and generosity.”
Narrated by Al-Bayhaqi in Al-Da'awat Al-Kabir. It is a report attributed to Ibn Umar, and Al-Bayhaqi graded its chain of transmission as good.
Conclusion: It is not permissible to resort to Al-Taqaf or other practices that have no basis in Islamic law to recover stolen property. Rather, what is prescribed is to supplicate to Allah, seek His help, and take permissible practical measures.
We ask Allah to restore people's rights to their rightful owners and protect the wealth of Muslims.
And Allah knows best.