Actor Ranya Rao, known for her debut in the 2014 Kannada film Maanikya, was intercepted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) at Kempegowda International Airport while allegedly attempting to smuggle gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore. The 33-year-old was reportedly just a step away from clearing airport security when a DRI team, acting on specific intelligence, stopped her and recovered 14.2 kg of gold ingeniously concealed on her person.
Intercepted at the Last Moment
Ranya Rao had arrived from Dubai on an Emirates flight on Monday, accompanied by two individuals carrying briefcases containing smuggled gold. According to officials, the group had nearly cleared security and was moments away from exiting when DRI officers intervened.
“Upon examination, gold bars weighing 14.2 kg were found ingeniously concealed on the person. The contraband, valued at ₹12.56 crore, was seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962,” the DRI stated.
Raid at Lavelle Road Residence
Following the airport interception, DRI officials raided Ranya’s residence on Lavelle Road, Bengaluru, where she lives with her husband. The search led to the seizure of additional gold jewelry worth ₹2.06 crore and Indian currency amounting to ₹2.67 crore.
“The total seizure in the case stands at ₹17.29 crore, marking a significant blow to organized gold smuggling networks,” the DRI said in a statement. The agency noted that the 14.2 kg gold haul is one of the biggest seizures at Bengaluru airport in recent times.
Frequent Gulf Trips Put Ranya on DRI Radar
Reports suggest that Ranya’s frequent short trips to Gulf countries had drawn the attention of investigative agencies, leading to her being placed under surveillance.
Ranya Rao is the stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer. Her stepfather’s first wife had passed away, following which he married a woman who had two daughters from her previous marriage, including Ranya.
The actor has been placed under arrest under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, and has been remanded to judicial custody as investigations continue into her alleged role in the gold smuggling network.
Sources By Agencies
