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 revealed that she discreetly wore most of the gold while also concealing gold bars in her clothing.
The actress is the daughter of a DGP-rank IPS officer serving in Karnataka. Investigators are now probing whether she had any backing from law enforcement personnel. According to preliminary findings, Ranya allegedly used her father’s position to seek police escorts upon arrival, raising concerns about potential collusion.
The DRI had been tracking her movements after she made four trips to Dubai in the past 15 days. Acting on intelligence, officials intercepted her at the airport and took her into custody.
Ranya, known for her role opposite Kannada superstar Sudeep in Maanikya, has also worked in other South Indian films.
Following her arrest, she was taken to the DRI headquarters in Bengaluru for interrogation before being produced in court, where she was remanded to 14-day judicial custody. The DRI has yet to issue an official statement regarding the case.
