Bengaluru, 06 March 2025: Kannada actress Ranya Rao, daughter of senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, was arrested at Bengaluru International Airport for allegedly smuggling nearly 15 kg of gold worth over ₹12 crore. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted her based on suspicions arising from her frequent trips to Dubai.
DRI officials stated that Ranya, who had traveled to Dubai four times within 15 days, was arrested upon her arrival from Dubai on an Emirates flight. Acting on a tip-off, the officials monitored her closely, suspecting her involvement in illicit activities. During the inspection, the officials discovered 14.8 kg of gold concealed in her clothing and a significant portion worn by her.
Following her arrest, Ranya was presented before an economic offences court and has been remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. The DRI also seized assets worth ₹17.29 crore as part of the investigation.
Authorities are investigating possible links to a larger smuggling syndicate. Officials suspect that Ranya may have tried to use her connections to bypass customs checks. She allegedly identified herself as the daughter of Ramachandra Rao, the Director General of Police in Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation, and reportedly contacted local police for an escort from the airport.
Ranya Rao, born on May 28, 1993, made her debut in the 2014 Kannada film Maanikya and has appeared in several films, including the Tamil film Wagah and the Kannada comedy Pataki. Investigations are ongoing in the high-profile case.