A team of construction workers in east Flanders, Belgium made an unexpected discovery while undertaking renovation work on a residential property. While drilling to install new sewage pipes in the building’s cellar, the workers encountered a substantial cache of gold bars and coins hidden within the walls. The stash, reported to be worth approximately €9 million, was uncovered earlier this week and subsequently removed to a secure location by authorities.
The discovery has raised questions regarding rightful ownership and who may ultimately possess the treasure. The property is currently owned by CAW Oost-Vlaanderen, a charitable organization providing welfare services in the Flemish community of Dendermonde. The organization’s director expressed hope that the find might eventually support the charity’s operations and address ongoing community needs. Meanwhile, the construction workers, including an 18-year-old employed for summer work, promptly reported the discovery to local police rather than attempting to retain the valuables.
Under Belgian law, the rightful owner has five years to claim the hoard. Local prosecutors have initiated an investigation to determine legitimate ownership. If no owner comes forward within this period, existing civil law provisions stipulate that any hidden treasure located on another party’s property must be divided between the finder and the property owner, provided the items are not connected to criminal activity. Local police have warned the public against visiting the active construction site in search of additional treasure and expressed hope that the discovery will ultimately be directed to “the right place” and improve people’s circumstances.
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