Kannada actress Ranya Rao, the daughter of K Ramachandra Rao, the Director General of Police (Police Housing Corporation), was apprehended by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) on March 3. She is accused of smuggling 14.8 kg of gold valued at over Rs 12 crore from Dubai.
Acting on a tip-off, DRI officials intercepted Ranya and conducted a search, during which they discovered gold bars concealed in a belt attached to her body, in addition to 800 grams of gold jewelry. She was subsequently presented before the Special Court for Economic Offences on March 4 and was remanded to judicial custody for a period of 14 days.
Ranya, recognized for her performances in Kannada and Tamil cinema, including films such as Maanikya, Pataki, and Wagah, is believed to be involved in a broader smuggling operation linked to Bengaluru airport. Following her arrest, DRI officials executed a search and seizure operation at her residence in Bengaluru.
Reports indicate that Ranya had been monitored due to her numerous international trips, having made over ten visits to Dubai in recent months despite lacking any apparent business interests in the region. Authorities grew suspicious upon observing her repeated short visits to the Gulf.
On March 2, she was allegedly escorted from the International Airport Police Station and exited the airport without undergoing a security check. A constable from the airport police attempted to guide her out, but officers from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intervened. During the subsequent search, they uncovered gold bars hidden within a belt she was wearing. Officials remarked on her apparent confidence, noting she exhibited no signs of anxiety. However, her choice of clothing during her recent trips raised additional concerns, as she donned similar outfits on her last four visits within a span of 15 days, which effectively concealed the belt.
Investigators believe that Ranya exploited official protocol services designated for high-ranking officials, including Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, to bypass security checks. A protocol officer would meet her at the terminal and facilitate her exit, ensuring she was not subjected to physical screening. Subsequently, she would be collected in a government vehicle, thus evading further examination.
The constable who accompanied her was held for interrogation by DRI officials, and his statement was documented prior to his release. Authorities are currently examining whether any law enforcement personnel intentionally aided Ranya or were deceived into enabling her actions. Additionally, they are investigating whether her father's influence contributed to her evasion of security protocols. After her apprehension, Ranya allegedly asserted that she was coerced and extorted into engaging in gold smuggling. Officials are in the process of validating this assertion as part of the continuing investigation.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)