Rao was apprehended at Kempegowda International Airport on March 3, 2025, upon her arrival from Dubai. A thorough search led to the discovery of gold bars concealed on her person, including areas around her waist and calves, as well as hidden within her shoes and pockets. The seized gold was valued at over ₹12.56 crore. Subsequent searches at her Bengaluru residence uncovered gold jewellery worth ₹2.06 crore and ₹2.67 crore in cash.
Investigations have identified Sahil Sakariya Jain, a jeweller based in Ballari, as a key accomplice in this smuggling network. Jain is alleged to have facilitated the disposal of the smuggled gold within domestic markets. Both individuals are currently in judicial custody as the DRI continues its probe into the extent of their operations and potential connections to a larger smuggling syndicate.
Rao, originally from Chikmagalur, Karnataka, pursued an engineering degree before transitioning to the film industry. She made her acting debut in the 2014 Kannada film "Maanikya" and has since appeared in several regional films. The unfolding scandal has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and raised concerns about the involvement of public figures in illegal activities.
The DRI's investigation has also uncovered that Rao allegedly arranged funds through hawala channels to finance the purchase of the smuggled gold. This revelation has prompted the Enforcement Directorate to initiate a parallel probe into potential money laundering activities associated with the case. The ED has conducted raids at multiple locations in Bengaluru, targeting entities suspected of facilitating these illicit financial transactions.
Authorities are now focusing on dismantling the broader smuggling network and identifying other individuals who may be complicit. The case underscores the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in combating gold smuggling, a practice that not only results in significant revenue loss but also has broader economic implications.