Action Days of the Administrative Intervention Team (BIT) Hart van Brabant

150 businesses inspected, various violations identified

From March 4 to 12, 2026, inspectors from the Administrative Intervention Team (BIT) Hart van Brabant conducted checks on approximately 150 businesses located on industrial estates in the district. Over six action days, they examined the use of buildings and premises, environmental and fire safety, and potential signs of criminal activity. The operations were carried out in collaboration with the police, UWV, Enexis, and in some cases, Customs, Environmental Service MWB, PVO, and the Dutch Labour Inspectorate.

Purpose of the inspections

The inspections focused on determining the actual use of business premises. Not all businesses are registered with the Chamber of Commerce or publicly listed, which sometimes makes it unclear what activities are taking place. Inspectors also paid attention to fire and environmental safety, undeclared work, and signs of criminal involvement.

A key part of the action days involved discussions with entrepreneurs about risks and how they can contribute to a safe business environment.

Results

For the majority of businesses, matters were in order. However, approximately thirty businesses were found to have violations related to environmental or fire safety, such as missing fire extinguishers and improper storage of hazardous substances. Additionally, the following issues were identified:

Illegal occupation

In four buildings, there are suspicions of illegal occupation. Parts of the business premises appeared to have been converted into living spaces without the necessary permits. This is being investigated further.

Undeclared work

Several individuals were found who were receiving benefits from UWV or the municipality but had not reported their additional employment. These situations are also being investigated further.

Notable discovery in Waalwijk

In a warehouse in Waspik, the BIT discovered a 'mining farm': a setup with computers generating cryptocurrencies and consuming an excessive amount of electricity. Enexis confirmed meter tampering and illegal electricity usage. The power has been disconnected, and Enexis will invoice the costs. In the same warehouse, goods used for cannabis cultivation were found and seized by the police. The mayor has immediately closed the premises.

Vulnerability of industrial estates

Industrial estates are attractive to criminals seeking to remain under the radar. They use buildings for shell companies, drug production or storage, as well as for storing stolen goods or housing migrant workers under poor conditions. This leads to risks such as fire hazards, intimidation of entrepreneurs, and urban decay. Through inspections and education, the BIT is working to create a safe, clean, and resilient working environment.

Background of the BIT Hart van Brabant

Since October 1, 2023, the municipalities of Dongen, Gilze en Rijen, Goirle, Tilburg, Hilvarenbeek, Loon op Zand, Oisterwijk, and Waalwijk have been collaborating in the BIT Hart van Brabant to address complex enforcement, organized crime, and undermining. Under the supervision of this team, regular inspections are conducted at buildings and locations where there is reason to do so. This may also involve a strong suspicion of irregularities or non-compliance with laws and regulations. Additionally, gaining insight into specific sectors or themes can prompt the BIT to carry out inspections.

Reporting helps

Governments cannot tackle criminal activities alone. Reporting and alerting helps protect victims and hold offenders accountable.

Reports can be made to:

• Police: 112 (emergency) or 0900-8844
• Municipality
• Crime Stoppers: 0800-7000 or meldmisdaadanoniem.nl