In a major crackdown on gold smuggling, the Directorate
of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested Kannada actress Ranya Rao at
Bengaluru airport on March 3. She was found in possession of 17 gold
bars worth ₹12.56 crore, marking one of the biggest gold seizures at the
airport in recent times. Further investigations led officials to her residence,
where they recovered additional assets, bringing the total seizure value to ₹17.29
crore.
What Did Authorities Seize?
Following her arrest, DRI officials conducted a search of Ranya
Rao’s home, leading to the discovery of:
- Gold
jewellery worth ₹2.06 crore
- ₹2.67
crore in Indian currency
- Total
seizure: ₹17.29 crore (including gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore)
Authorities believe this operation has dealt a significant blow
to organised gold smuggling networks, as such a large-scale gold bust is
rare at Bengaluru airport.
Court Proceedings and Custody Conditions
Ranya Rao was presented before the Economic Offences
Court in Bengaluru, which remanded her to DRI custody until March 10.
However, the court has permitted her to meet her lawyer for 30 minutes daily
and instructed officials to provide her with essentials, including food and a
bed. Justice Vishwanath C Gowdar also warned against any harsh treatment
during the investigation.
After the court hearing, Ranya was seen leaving in a black
SUV, drawing media attention.
Ranya Rao’s Travel History Raises Suspicions
Investigations have revealed that Ranya frequently
traveled abroad, raising concerns about her involvement in gold smuggling.
- She
reportedly visited Dubai 27 times in the past six months.
- Her
travel history includes visits to Europe, America, and the Middle East,
particularly Dubai and Saudi Arabia.
- Authorities
are now probing whether she has been involved in smuggling gold on
previous occasions.
Additionally, sources allege that Ranya used VIP channels
at Bengaluru airport, where a protocol official received her, making
her security clearance easier. This has raised suspicions about possible
collusion between insiders and smugglers.
Who is Ranya Rao?
- The
34-year-old actress is known for her roles in Kannada and Tamil films.
- She
is married to Jatin Hukkeri, an architect.
- In
her passport, she is identified as Harshavardini Ranya.
- Apart
from acting, she has worked as a wildlife photographer.
- She
is the stepdaughter of Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao, who is the Chairman
and Managing Director of Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure
Development Corporation Ltd.
What’s Next in the Investigation?
Authorities are now:
- Examining
Ranya’s financial records to trace potential links with smuggling
syndicates.
- Investigating
whether she was part of a larger gold smuggling racket.
- Probing
any potential involvement of airport officials or VIP facilitators
who may have helped her bypass security checks.
As the case unfolds, the DRI continues its crackdown on
illegal gold smuggling, with Ranya Rao’s arrest being a significant
development in the fight against financial crimes.