Construction workers in Belgium have unearthed an estimated €9 million ($9.7 million) worth of gold coins and bars hidden within the walls of a property. The discovery was made while the crew was drilling to lay sewage pipes in the cellar.
The property currently belongs to CAW Oost-Vlaanderen, a social welfare organization that provides support in Dendermonde. Geert Hillaert, the director of CAW Oost-Vlaanderen, expressed surprise and amazement at the find, noting the enormous daily needs the organization experiences.
Following the discovery, the builders immediately alerted the police, stating that keeping the treasure was not an option due to its immense value. "There are so many coins and bars - it would be almost impossible," said site manager Mario. "Besides, that would be theft."
Local police have urged the public not to visit the active construction site. The force, which has updated its Facebook profile picture to an image of a gold coin, hopes the discovery will ultimately benefit the community.
Under Belgian law, the rightful owner has five years to claim the hoard. The local prosecutor has launched an investigation, but it is not yet known who the owner might be. If no one comes forward to claim the treasure, civil law dictates that hidden hoards found on another's property are divided between the finder and the property owner, provided the stash is not linked to criminal activity. Both the builders and CAW Oost-Vlaanderen now face a waiting period of up to five years.