Gold Smuggling Scandal: Relative of Karnataka IPS Officer Ranya Rao Caught with 4.8 kg from Dubai

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Ranya Rao, a Kannada actress was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on Monday night after being found with 14.8 kg of gold, according to officials. After her arrest, she was taken to an economic offences court, which placed her in 14-day judicial custody. Officials shared that Ranya arrived from Dubai on an Emirates flight and had been watched closely due to her frequent international travel. Her arrest was carried out by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).

Ranya Rao is accused of illegally smuggling gold from Dubai into India.

After her arrest, she was questioned at the DRI office in HBR layout, and a medical check-up was done at Bowring Hospital in Bengaluru. She is reportedly a close relative of an IPS officer named Ramachandra Rao, who works in Karnataka. A large sum of cash was also seized along with the gold.

Following the arrest, DRI officials searched Ranya's flat at Nandavani Mansion on Lavelli Road. Over five officials spent several hours inspecting the property. During the search, they discovered ₹2.5 crore at her home and took away three large boxes. The actress, known for her role alongside Kiccha Sudeep in the movie Maanikya, may also face issues with the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The investigation is ongoing to determine if she acted alone or is part of a smuggling network.

Who is Ranya Rao?

Ranya made her acting debut in the Kannada film Maanikya in 2014. She comes from the Chikmagalur district in Karnataka. After finishing her schooling in Bangalore, she pursued a degree in acting. So far, she has acted in only three movies: Maanikya, Wagah, and Pataki. Since her last movie in 2017, she has not appeared on screen.