Actress Ranya Rao’s VIP airport exit led to a shocking discovery: 14.2 kg of smuggled gold. But is this just the tip of the iceberg
In a shocking turn of events, authorities arrested popular actress Ranya Rao at Bengaluru International Airport on March 3 for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold worth Rs 12.86 crore. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) is now investigating whether this smuggling operation has links to anti-national activities.
The Arrest and Initial Findings
Authorities caught Ranya Rao, 33, as she was traveling from Dubai. Sources reveal that she had strapped the gold to her body to avoid detection by Customs officials. The DRI has taken her into custody for three days to investigate the source and destination of the smuggled gold.
Frequent Trips Raise Suspicion
Rao, who is the stepdaughter of a high-ranking IPS officer in Karnataka, had traveled to Dubai 27 times in the last six months. The DRI is probing the purpose of these frequent trips, suspecting they might be linked to her smuggling activities. After her arrest, officials conducted a search at her residence and seized jewellery worth Rs 2.06 crore and Rs 2.67 crore in cash, bringing the total seizure to Rs 17.29 crore.
VIP Treatment at the Airport
Interestingly, Rao reportedly used VIP channels to exit the airport, with a protocol official ensuring a smooth passage without extensive checks. This has raised questions about the involvement of other individuals in facilitating her activities.
Bail Plea Deferred
Rao filed a bail plea on Thursday. However, the special court deferred its decision to consider the DRI’s plea for further custody. Additionally, the agency is investigating whether she has been involved in similar smuggling activities in the past. Meanwhile, the DRI continues to gather evidence to strengthen its case against her.
What’s Next?
The case continues to unfold as the DRI digs deeper into the potential links of this smuggling operation to larger criminal networks and anti-national activities. With more details expected to emerge, this case has already captured the nation’s attention.
