Money laundering inquiry hears, RCMP didn't have the resources to investigate illegal activities at the province's largest casino

An inquiry into money laundering in BC has heard the RCMP didn't have the resources to investigate illegal activities at the province's largest casino.

Ward Clapham, the former officer-in-charge of the Richmond RCMP detachment, says he tried twice to establish a new unit directly assigned to the River Rock Casino but his requests were denied by the city.

The provincial government launched the inquiry after commissioning reports that outlined how money laundering was affecting real estate and housing affordability, luxury car sales and gambling in BC.

The inquiry also heard from Gord Friesen, a former Mountie and former manager of investigations for the BC Lottery Corporation, who says he didn't have the authority to stop a transaction without proof the money was the proceeds of crime.