Hamilton Police Service launched Project Suppression to combat a noticeable increase in violent offences being committed in Hamilton. 

In September 2021, Hamilton Police launched Project Suppression in relation to an increase in shootings and gang conflicts in the city. The project, which encompassed multiple units from the across the Service, was designed to target illegal firearms and hold individuals committing offences accountable.

“We continue to see the effect illicit drugs has on all aspects of our society. We know there is the impact on violent crime such as shootings but we also need to be aware of the stark increase in opioid deaths in Hamilton,” said Chief Frank Bergen. 

Over a six month period, Project Suppression resulted in 37 individuals charged, 288 charges laid, the seizure of 28 firearms, 10 replica firearms, 11 prohibited weapons, 5 prohibited devices, over 500 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade, $273,000 in cash and a significant amount of drugs.

The estimated street value of the seized drugs is $2,500,000. The project additionally resulted in the significant seizure of high purity Fentanyl that once prepared for street doses would have an estimated street value of $30,000,000.

“We continue to see an increase in guns on our streets. In fact, this week alone two traffic stops yielded two loaded handguns," said Deputy Chief Ryan Diodati.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into these crimes, you are asked to contact Gangs and Weapons Enforcement Unit Detective Sergeant Greg Slack by calling 905-546-3887.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com