New Delhi: In a shocking revelation, Kannada actress Ranya Rao’s arrest at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has exposed a sophisticated gold smuggling operation that leveraged her family connections to evade security checks. The 14.8 kg of gold seized from her possession not only highlights the ingenuity of smugglers but also raises critical questions about the misuse of official protocols by high-profile individuals.
Ranya Rao, known for her roles in films like “Maanikya” and “Pataki,” was apprehended by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Monday night. The actress had cleverly concealed gold bars in a belt, a tactic that allowed her to bypass security scrutiny on multiple occasions. Her frequent international trips, particularly to Dubai, had raised suspicions among DRI officials, who were monitoring her movements closely.
As the daughter of Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao, Ranya Rao may have benefited from her family’s influence to avoid thorough security checks. She reportedly used official protocol services meant for senior bureaucrats to bypass frisking, ensuring she was escorted out of the airport without being subjected to physical screening. This special treatment allowed her to travel undetected, even when carrying large quantities of gold.
Ranya Rao’s arrest followed a series of short-duration visits to the Gulf, with four trips to Dubai in the last 15 days alone. These frequent trips were a red flag for DRI officials, who intercepted her upon her return to Bengaluru. The actress was found with 14 gold bars and 800 grams of gold ornaments, primarily concealed in a belt. This sophisticated method of smuggling underscores the challenges faced by customs officials in detecting such operations.
Following her arrest, Ranya Rao was remanded to 14-day judicial custody. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities probing whether she was part of a larger smuggling network or acted alone. Her family’s past controversies, including allegations against her father in a 2014 case, have also come under scrutiny.
The Ranya Rao case has significant implications for how high-profile individuals may exploit official protocols to engage in illicit activities. It highlights the need for stricter vigilance and adherence to security protocols, regardless of an individual’s social status.
