Ranya Rao’s Arrest: A Case of Gold Smuggling and Investigation

Ranya Rao, a Kannada actor, was arrested for attempting to smuggle 14 kilograms of gold upon her arrival from Dubai. She failed to present a purchase receipt or declaration to customs authorities, leading to significant cash and jewellery seizures at her residence. The Karnataka government has ordered a CID investigation into her activities and possible police collusion, highlighting serious concerns regarding her network and continued smuggling operations.

On March 4, Kannada actor Ranya Rao was apprehended at Kempegowda International Airport, attempting to smuggle 14 kilograms of gold. Intercepted by Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials while passing through a channel designated for travelers with no items to declare, she denied possessing dutiable goods. Despite the absence of a baggage declaration, Rao lacked both a purchase receipt and any documentation to substantiate the legal acquisition of the gold.

Upon detection by a metal detector, a thorough search of her hand baggage yielded no contraband. However, a personal examination revealed gold bars meticulously strapped to her waist and calf muscles, with additional pieces concealed in her shoes and pants. The recovery of 14,213.050 grams of 24-karat gold marked the onset of further seizures linked to her activities.

Following the initial seizure, officials conducted further searches at Rao’s residence, uncovering cash totaling Rs 2.67 crore and jewellery valued at over Rs 2 crore. Rao was unable to provide a legitimate source for the cash or invoices for the jewellery. Additionally, records from Dubai Customs indicated her previous gold purchases, where she had allegedly misrepresented her travel intentions to evade customs regulation.

With her travel pattern raising suspicions of ongoing smuggling operations, authorities deemed her arrest necessary to prevent further offenses. The DRI arrest memo highlighted concerns about her lack of cooperation during the investigation, asserting that her apprehension would help secure evidence from tampering.

The Karnataka government has mandated a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the case, including potential collusion by law enforcement officials. A separate investigation into the conduct of Rao’s step-father, DGP Ramachandra Rao, has also been initiated to assess involvement or inadequacies within the police department.

Ranya Rao’s attempt to smuggle gold into India from Dubai has revealed grave implications involving potential collusion within the police. The arrests and investigations underscore the serious nature of gold smuggling offences, exacerbated by her substantial cash holdings and unreported jewellery. The government’s intervention through CID underscores their commitment to addressing the broader criminal syndicate potentially involved in these activities and maintaining integrity in law enforcement.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com