Bengaluru: Popular Kannada actress Ranya Rao has landed in legal trouble after being caught smuggling gold worth ₹12.56 crore from Dubai to Bengaluru. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted Rao upon her arrival at Kempegowda International Airport, discovering gold bars weighing 14.2 kg in her possession.
Ranya Rao’s Gold Smuggling Scandal: Key Developments
During the investigation, officials conducted searches at her residence, uncovering additional gold jewellery worth ₹2.06 crore and Indian currency amounting to ₹2.67 crore. Rao, who admitted to smuggling gold for the first time, revealed that she learned smuggling techniques from YouTube videos.
“This was the first time I smuggled gold from Dubai to Bengaluru,” Rao reportedly stated. Despite her confession, officials claim she did not fully cooperate during her three-day DRI custody.
Bail Plea Reserved Amid Alleged Political Nexus
The Special Court for Economic Offences has reserved its decision on Ranya Rao’s bail plea until Friday. The prosecution revealed that Rao bypassed airport security using protocols meant for senior officials. A protocol officer allegedly facilitated her clearance, citing instructions from the police department.
Speculations about Rao’s connections with political figures have surfaced. However, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dismissed such claims, stating, “It is just a rumour and a BJP game plan. No minister is involved in this crime.” Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered an internal investigation into the alleged misuse of security protocols.
Influence of Ranya Rao’s Step-Father Under Investigation
Reports suggest that Rao’s stepfather, Ramchandra Rao, who serves as the DGP of Karnataka Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation, may have influenced the protocol officer’s actions. While the allegations remain under scrutiny, the DRI and CBI are actively probing the case.
Senior Congress leader TB Jayachandra has also dismissed opposition claims linking ministers to the smuggling case. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah awaits a confidential report from Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta on the alleged misuse of airport protocols.
Concerns Over Lax Airport Security at Bengaluru International Airport
The case has sparked concerns over the effectiveness of airport security protocols. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed surprise at how 14.2 kg of gold passed through high-security checks at Kempegowda International Airport.
“When I came back from Dubai, I was asked to remove my ring, watch, and belt. I am shocked at how such a huge quantity of gold was smuggled despite stringent security,” Shivakumar remarked.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to tighten security measures to prevent further incidents of gold smuggling. With high-profile figures implicated, this case continues to attract widespread attention in Karnataka and beyond.
