Hamilton restaurant owner accused of trafficking drugs

The owner of a Kenilworth Avenue North restaurant is facing criminal charges after Hamilton police say they uncovered a drug trafficking operation at the business.

Hamilton police gangs and weapon enforcement unit officers began investigating earlier this month after a tip that drugs were being sold out of the Taste of the Caribbean Restaurant, said Det. Sgt. Craig Leishman.

Police surveillance of the business showed a steady stream of traffic in and out, he said.

Last Friday, police executed warrants at the restaurant and at the owner’s residence on Bastille Street, near Rymal Road East and Upper Wellington Street. They found a large quantity of cocaine and other drugs valued at around $20,000, plus cash.

Leishman said police are not sure how long the alleged drug operation was ongoing, but added that the amount of money seized indicates “he had been at it a while.”

The business was “very active” during the short span of time police were watching for the investigation.

Leishman said detectives believe the accused was acting on his own.

Marvin Sursen, 40, of Hamilton, is charged with three counts of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, two counts of possession of oxycodone for the purpose of trafficking, possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000 and possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000.