Hamilton police shut down open-air drug market at King and East

Hamilton police have shut down an open-air drug market that was operating at King and East after a five-week operation. In total, 57 people were arrested and 103 charges were laid.

Officers say the area has faced years of complaints about drug dealing and petty crime.

Investigators say the market was run like a business, with various roles including lookouts and traffickers.

Hamilton Police Inspector Jim Callender said in a press release that the markets had negatively affected the surrounding community.

“By addressing these issues, we aim to restore safety and rebuild trust in the affected neighbourhoods,” he said.

Over the course of the investigation, Hamilton police say they seized more than $12,000 in coins. They also seized several illicit drugs, including crack cocaine, cannabis, methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Police also believe the operation was run by Vincent Asanti, who is now facing drug-related charges.

Officers also seized over $51,000 from Asanti’s residences and vehicle.

The department says many of the activities took place in a nearby local park and across the street from an elementary school.

Officers are asking if anyone has information or sees illegal activities to contact police.

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