Hamilton law enforcement efforts have been intensifying to combat criminal activities, leading to the closure of a tunnel system, a drug den, and an open-air drug market. However, these actions are also highlighting the dire circumstances faced by the most vulnerable individuals in society.

Inspector Jim Callender from Hamilton police highlighted the ongoing challenge in addressing the drug problem, stating that the potential for criminal groups or individuals to profit from those struggling with addiction is significant.

Earlier this month, police successfully closed down an open-air drug market located at the intersection of King Street and East Avenue. This operation had been the subject of local community complaints for over half a decade.

The police noted that this market was strategically located near an elementary school, a park, and St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, which offers services to aid the most vulnerable individuals in the community.

Inspector Callender suggested that the location was likely chosen to specifically target the more vulnerable segment of the population, those grappling with homelessness and drug addiction.

Commenting on the opioid crisis in the province, Callender said, “The opioid crisis is an issue in the province, and I think that’s one of the biggest concerns that we have when we talk about people who are battling addiction, and there’s the exploitation and the capitalization on those addictions, and unfortunately, the people that are running these criminal operations are preying on those individuals to make money for themselves.”

Throughout their investigation, the police arrested 57 individuals and laid 103 charges. Callender noted that while drug markets are not a new phenomenon, this particular operation was resilient, reopening repeatedly after each arrest, and not keeping the drugs on site.

Last week, officers conducted a raid on a makeshift structure known as “The Shack” located along the CP Rail line, near Lincoln and Barton streets. The Hamilton police allege that this location was used for storing and selling drugs and weapons.

The raid was part of a broader initiative to dismantle drug trafficking networks across Hamilton. In addition to this, police discovered a series of man-made holes and tunnels within Gage Park during a proactive encampment check.

Nevertheless, advocates believe these actions underscore the dire situation many people in the community are facing. Kojo Damptey, a PhD student at McMaster University, is among the 400 people who have signed an open call for action to address homelessness and the housing crisis.

Damptey points out that the lack of resources results in situations like this, advocating for the need to provide necessary resources to people, including housing. “The issue around encampments has long been a standing issue across the province and across the country. So when our municipal and provincial governments are providing those resources, this is what ends up happening,” Damptey said.

Hamilton’s Mayor Andrea Horwath has expressed concern over the situation, stating that it’s unacceptable for people to resort to digging and living in holes to stay warm. The city is currently working on expanding its shelter system to provide more options for people so they don’t need to live in tents.