Police launched an investigation after a priest was accused of using money that was supposed to go to refugees to fuel his gambling addiction, police in Canada said.

 London police said that they are investigating Father Amer Saka of St. Joseph Chaldean Catholic Church, after receiving a complaint from the Diocese of Hamilton.

Saka has been suspended from his position at the church after admitting to Bishop Emanuel Shaleta that he lost $500,000 to gambling.

Saka has checked himself into the Southdown Institute, which is a facility for treatment of addictions.

About eight families who belong to St. Joseph's Chaldean Catholic Church, gave Saka the $500,000 and trusted him that he distribute the money once the refugees arrived in the country.