A special court for economic offences on Friday granted the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence 3 days’ custody of actress Ranya Rao, who was arrested earlier this week at Kempegowda International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold from Dubai.
DRI Suspects Links To Smuggling Network
The DRI sought Rao’s custodial interrogation to trace the source of the smuggled gold and identify its intended recipients, hinting at a potential connection to “anti-national activities.”
Accepting the request, the court permitted further investigation into the case.
During the hearing, the DRI submitted Rao’s recorded statement as evidence to justify their request for her custody.
Frequent Dubai Trips Raise Suspicion
Investigators disclosed that Rao, whose passport identifies her as Harshavardini Ranya, had traveled to Dubai 27 times in the last six months, raising red flags about the purpose of her frequent visits. Following her arrest, she claimed to be working as a freelancer in Dubai’s real estate sector.
While she applied for bail on Thursday, the court deferred its decision, prioritizing the DRI’s custody request for further inquiry.
Seizure Of Gold & Cash
According to DRI officials, gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore were seized from the 34-year-old actress at Bengaluru airport. Further searches at her residence led to the discovery of gold jewelry worth ₹2.06 crore and ₹2.67 crore in cash.
The total seizure in the case stands at ₹17.29 crore, including assets worth ₹4.73 crore, marking a significant crackdown on organized gold smuggling networks.
Rao’s Alleged Use Of VIP Airport Access
Officials revealed that Rao frequently used VIP channels at Bengaluru airport, where a protocol official would receive her, allegedly helping her bypass security checks with ease.
Authorities are now investigating whether she had previously smuggled gold using similar methods.
Family Connection To Senior IPS Officer
Ranya Rao is the stepdaughter of senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, who currently serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd, a senior police official confirmed.
The 14.2 kg gold seizure is one of the largest in Bengaluru airport’s recent history, underscoring the scale of smuggling operations under investigation.
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