Top VIP Host on Leave Amid Money-Laundering Investigation at River Rock Casino

Richmond, BC – Lisa Gao, the long-standing director of VIP relations at River Rock Casino, has been removed from her role and is now barred from accessing the property. This disciplinary move follows her de-registration by British Columbia’s Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB), pending a final review, due to alleged violations of anti–money laundering regulations involving “third-party cash buy-ins” .

What triggered the inquiry?

• Authorities began investigating last November after evidence emerged that Gao may have facilitated third-party transactions, which contravene directives from the B.C. Lottery Corporation and FINTRAC requiring reporting of large cash deposits 

• The investigation is part of a larger probe into casino practices at River Rock, which includes official audits and independent reviews highlighting concerns over large volumes of undeclared cash entering VIP high-limit areas 

  
  

Key developments

• De-registration: Gao lost her casino registration in early 2018. Without it, she cannot legally work in any BC casino 

• Departure announced: In February, River Rock’s casino operations manager notified staff of Gao’s exit, signaling confirmation of the de-registration 

• Ongoing review: The GPEB’s decision is preliminary; a full review is underway to determine if the de-registration is permanent