Tilburg escort agency granted license despite human trafficking conviction
The municipality of Tilburg has issued a permit to Nirvana, a controversial escort agency whose founder was convicted in Belgium for human trafficking and exploitation, according to an investigation by Pointer.
The founder, Margretha van de Laar, received a four-year prison sentence, two years of which were suspended, but remains at large. Her daughter, the current owner of Nirvana, was also convicted in Belgium for forgery in the same case. The agency, which operates under scrutiny, has allegedly continued activities involving threats and extortion, as revealed in Pointer’s findings.
Licensing amid controversy
In March, Tilburg granted Nirvana a license, despite its contentious history. A spokesperson for the municipality explained that no grounds for refusal were identified during the application review. Critics, however, argue that the company appears to have bypassed standard checks. “The dossier is under attention,” the spokesperson added, declining to comment on potential repercussions.
André van Dorst, a representative of the industry’s advocacy group, expressed astonishment, stating that owners with criminal records typically fail the screening process mandated by the Wet Bibob law, which examines the integrity of business operators.
Local political party ONS Tilburg has since questioned the city council about the decision. The party has demanded clarity on the steps taken during the license approval process and whether the permit will be reevaluated.
Persistent allegations
Nirvana’s operations have been fraught with allegations of fraudulent activities. Pointer’s investigation uncovered over 100 fake profiles used on escort websites, where clients often found themselves matched with different individuals. Customers who refused to pay were reportedly threatened with public exposure to their families, neighbors, and friends.
Van de Laar, who claimed in 2023 to have severed ties with the company, remains linked to its operations. Pointer revealed that threats and extortion involving clients persisted into 2024, despite her prior convictions in both Belgium and the Netherlands for offenses including tax fraud.
