Is it permissible to cover up for one who commits a hadd?

Question:
If a man is arrested and it is suspected that he is intoxicated, is it better to warn him, cover up for him, and advise him, or to leave him alone and threaten him?

Answer:
As for the general public, one covers up for him and advises him. But for the police and the authorities, no; they do not cover up for him if they arrest him. They are the deputies of the ruler; they arrest him and detain him until he receives his punishment. As for a Muslim who is found drunk at the door or on the road, if someone takes him, advises him, and returns him to his home, may Allah reward him with good. There is nothing wrong with that. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: .
But if it reaches the authorities, no. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: . The police are part of the ruler's authority, so they are the deputies of the ruler. The judges are the deputies of the ruler, and the committee is the deputies of the ruler. If the matter reaches them, they arrest him and do not cover up for him. Rather, they take him, detain him, and carry out the instructions entrusted to them regarding the case.