Gold Smuggling Scandal: Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on March 3 for allegedly attempting to smuggle 14.2 kilograms of gold valued at approximately ₹12.56 crore. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted the 33-year-old actress upon her arrival from Dubai, acting on intelligence regarding her frequent international travels.
Ranya Rao is known for her roles in films such as “Maanikya” (2014) which also starred Kichcha Sudeep. Rao is the step daughter of IPS officer K. Ramachandra Rao, who currently serves as the Director-General of Police at the Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation. The actress traveled to Dubai four times within a 15-day span, which alerted authorities to initiate investigation. After her return on March 3, DRI officials conducted a targeted operation, leading to her arrest.
The officials seized gold bars weighing 14.2 kg while conducting inspection on the airport. Rao was presented before a special court on economic offences and was remanded to DRI custody until March 18, following her arrest.
Soon after the arrest, the DRI raided the 33-year-old actress’s residence on Lavelle Road in Bengaluru. Rao resides with her husband Jatin Hukkeri, who is an architect. The officials seized gold jewelry worth ₹2.06 crore and ₹2.67 crore in cash, bringing the total value of seized assets in the case to ₹17.29 crore.
Furthermore, investigations are underway to determine Rao’s role in the smuggling or the presence of a larger smuggling syndicate operating between Dubai and India. As per reports
Authorities are now investigating whether Rao acted independently or as part of a larger smuggling syndicate operating between Dubai and India. There are also probes into potential involvement or awareness of law enforcement officers, including her stepfather, regarding her activities.
Ranya Rao’s arrest has sent shockwaves through the Kannada film industry and raised concerns about the involvement of public figures in illicit activities. The DRI continues its investigation to uncover the full extent of the smuggling operation and any associated networks.
Edited By Pronoy Shukla
Also Read: https://theglobalic.com/2025/03/03/uttarakhand-avalanche-8-dead-46-rescued-in-3-day-operation/
