Kannada Actress Ranya Rao Arrested for Gold Smuggling

Bengaluru: Authorities took Kannada actress Ranya Rao into custody at Kempegowda International Airport on Wednesday. She was allegedly smuggling gold from Dubai. Authorities seized nearly 15 kilograms of gold bars, valued at approximately ₹12.56 crore, hidden in a specially modified jacket she was wearing.

As the investigation unfolds, startling details about Rao’s alleged smuggling activities have emerged. Sources indicate that she traveled to Dubai around 30 times in the past year, reportedly smuggling gold on each trip. It is alleged that she received ₹1 lakh per kilogram, potentially earning ₹12-13 lakh per trip.

Officials have also uncovered that the actress used the same custom-made jackets for her smuggling operations. She repeatedly used the same waist belts too. Her frequent international travel had already placed her under the radar of investigative agencies. This led to her interception by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) upon arrival in Bengaluru.

After her arrest, Rao allegedly tried to use her connections. She claimed she was the daughter of senior Karnataka IPS officer Ramachandra Rao. He serves as the DGP of the Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation. However, prior intelligence led authorities to conduct a thorough search, resulting in the seizure of the smuggled gold.

The total assets seized in connection with the case have reached ₹17.29 crore, including properties worth ₹4.73 crore.

Reacting to his daughter’s arrest, Ramachandra Rao expressed disbelief and distress. He stated that he was unaware of her alleged activities, emphasizing that she lived separately from the family. He maintained that the law would take its course and that his professional integrity remained untarnished.

The case continues to develop as officials probe further into the smuggling network.