In brief
During a sewage pipe installation, builders in east Flanders stumbled upon a hidden cache of gold bars and coins, estimated at €9 million. The rescued treasure is now held by police, while both the construction crew and the charitable organization that owns the property await claims under Belgian law. Authorities warn the public against treasure hunting and emphasize that rightful owners have five years to register an interest. The find could potentially fund welfare work in Dendermonde after legal deliberations, or be split between location owners and finders if no claim materialises.
Construction workers renovating a private residence in Dendermonde, Belgium, uncovered a hidden cache of gold bars and coins. While drilling to replace sewage pipes, the crew found the gold sealed into the cellar walls, estimating its value at around €9 million (£7.6 million).
Police were alerted immediately, and an investigation was launched. The gold has now been moved to a secure location, and the public is urged not to approach the construction site looking for further treasure.
The property belongs to CAW Oost-Vlaanderen, a welfare charity that has promised to use any proceeds to support its programs. The charity’s director, Geert Hillaert, expressed surprise and optimism, hoping the find could finance daily assistance for the community.
Under Belgian law, the owner has up to five years to claim the hoard. If no claim is made, the treasure would legally be divided between the property’s owners and the discoverers, provided it was not linked to criminal activity. Both the construction crew and the charity may eventually share or retain the gold under these conditions.
Local police highlighted how this discovery might ‘change people’s lives’ and emphasized that the rightful owner should be identified. Meanwhile, the finding has captured public attention and fueled speculation on how the priceless loot will ultimately be used.
