Bengaluru: The investigation into the arrest of Kannada actress Ranya Rao, daughter of a serving IPS officer, has revealed her involvement in a gold smuggling network. Officials have found that she took hefty commissions to smuggle gold from Dubai to Bengaluru.
The probe has indicated that Ranya Rao was smuggling gold on behalf of key players in an international smuggling ring. Sources state that the actress did not have the financial means to purchase gold worth Rs 17.29 crore, raising suspicions about her role.
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Investigating officers discovered that Ranya Rao was paid commissions of Rs 4 lakh to Rs 5 lakh per kilogram of gold smuggled from Dubai to Bengaluru. The gang allegedly lured her into smuggling, exploiting the fact that she was the daughter of a serving IPS officer, which they believed would provide them cover.
Suspicion on airport staff
Officials suspect the involvement of airport personnel at Bengaluru International Airport in the smuggling operation. Authorities are now focusing on tracing the individuals to whom Ranya Rao delivered the smuggled gold.
The investigation team is currently analysing financial transactions from her bank accounts over the past two years. Additionally, her mobile phone has been seized to extract further details about the smuggling network.
ED likely to step in
Sources indicate that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is expected to take over the case, following the seizure of a significant quantity of gold and cash from Ranya Rao’s possession.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has shared details with the ED regarding the seizure of Rs 2.67 crore in alleged unaccounted cash from her residence. Reports suggest that she may also face charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Security check evasion and police involvement
Sources claim that Ranya Rao refused to cooperate with security checks at the airport and allegedly threatened officials by stating that she was the daughter of the DGP. This behaviour aroused suspicion, prompting the DRI to closely monitor her activities. Additionally, police personnel who allegedly escorted her from the airport are also under investigation.
Arrest and seizure at Bengaluru airport
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested Ranya Rao after seizing 14.8 kg of gold from her at Bengaluru International Airport on Monday night. She was taken into custody upon her arrival from Dubai on an Emirates flight. Officials had been monitoring her due to her frequent trips to Dubai, which eventually led to her arrest.
IANS
Published: 06 Mar 2025, 12:42 pm IST
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