In a major crackdown on gold smuggling, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Bengaluru, arrested Kannada actress Ranya Rao at Kempegowda International Airport after seizing 14.8 kg of gold from her possession.
Ranya, who arrived in Bengaluru on an Emirates flight from Dubai on Monday night, had been under DRI surveillance due to her frequent international trips. Officials said she managed to wear most of the gold inconspicuously while also concealing gold bars in her clothing.
Who Is Ranya Rao?
Ranya is the daughter of a DGP-rank IPS officer serving in Karnataka. Ranya, known for her role opposite Kannada superstar Sudeep in the movie ‘Maanikya’, has also acted in other South Indian films.
Officials are investigating whether Ranya had any support from law enforcement personnel.
Preliminary findings suggest that upon her arrival at the airport, Ranya would claim to be the daughter of the DGP and would call local police officers to escort her home. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) is now examining whether these officers were involved in, or unknowingly used for, the smuggling network.
The DRI has yet to release an official statement on the matter. The agency began monitoring her movements after noticing she had traveled to Dubai four times within the last 15 days. Acting on this information, the DRI intercepted her upon her return. After her arrest, Ranya was taken to the DRI headquarters in Bengaluru for further interrogation. She is expected to be presented before a Bengaluru court on March 4.
