Gold Smuggling Scandal: Kannada Actress Ranya Rao Caught Red-Handed

Bengaluru (The Uttam Hindu) : In a shocking turn of events, Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) at the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on Tuesday for allegedly smuggling 14.8 kg of gold worth Rs 12.5 crore from Dubai. According to sources, Rao, who is the stepdaughter of a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was intercepted by DRI officials after she arrived from Dubai on an Emirates flight. A thorough search of her luggage revealed 14.8 kg of gold, which was cleverly concealed in her bags.

Rao Sent to 14-Day Judicial Custody

Rao was produced before a local court, which remanded her to 14-day judicial custody. The DRI has also seized her passport and is investigating her role in the gold smuggling racket.

Investigation Reveals Rao's Involvement in Gold Smuggling

Preliminary investigations revealed that Rao had been smuggling gold from Dubai for several months. She would allegedly travel to Dubai on a tourist visa, purchase gold, and then smuggle it back into India, evading customs duty.

Rao's IPS Officer Stepfather Under Scanner

Rao's stepfather, a senior IPS officer, is also under the scanner for his alleged involvement in the gold smuggling racket. Sources say that the officer may have used his influence to help Rao evade detection.

Kannada Film Industry Rocked by Rao's Arrest

Rao's arrest has sent shockwaves through the Kannada film industry, where she was known for her roles in several films and television shows. Many of her colleagues have expressed surprise and disappointment over her alleged involvement in gold smuggling.