Confiscated leatherman at Shiphol

We went through Shiphol security and my bf forgot to leave his leatherman at home. He had it since he was 12. We asked if we could have it shipped or if we could leave it in some storage place and they said no and didn't even give the option to put it as a checked baggage and I just read this could have been possible, why didnt they offer that? We have two backpacks only as carry on, we would have gladly put it as checked as it has sentimental value. They quickly put in a bin and it's gone, they cant apparently retrieve it? I think there is nothing left to do, but thought to check as he' s very upset about it and I feel guilty as we are going to visit my family for my birthday. I am still at the airport as the flight leaves in 3 hours, is it gone for good? I read that confiscated items are not auctioned. I have read you could get fined too with some types of blades. He has always carried it with him in case he needs it for his bike or help others in need with their bikes.