Kannada actress Ranya Rao is under intensified scrutiny as the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence uncovers allegations of her involvement in smuggling approximately 14.56 kilograms of gold into the country. This operation reportedly resulted in a customs duty loss of around ₹4.45 crore to the exchequer. The investigation has also led to the arrest of Ballari-based businessman Sahil Sakariya Jain, who is accused of facilitating the sale of the smuggled gold within the domestic market.
Rao was apprehended at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on March 3, upon her arrival from Dubai. Authorities discovered 14.2 kilograms of 24-karat gold concealed on her person, valued at ₹12.56 crore. The actress allegedly attempted to bypass customs by utilizing the green channel, a route designated for passengers with no dutiable goods, and was reportedly escorted by a Bengaluru police protocol officer. This incident prompted the DRI to delve deeper into her travel history and activities.
Investigations revealed that prior to her March arrest, Rao had allegedly smuggled 14.56 kilograms of gold into India on January 11. This earlier operation is believed to have caused a customs duty loss of approximately ₹4.46 crore. The DRI's probe indicates that Rao had been involved in multiple smuggling instances, with assistance from various individuals, including Sahil Sakariya Jain.
Jain, a gold dealer from Ballari, was arrested on March 26 for his alleged role in aiding and abetting Rao's smuggling activities. According to court proceedings, Jain assisted in the disposal of the smuggled gold and shared in the proceeds from its sale. The DRI presented evidence suggesting that Jain's involvement was not limited to a single incident but spanned multiple occasions, highlighting his significant role in the smuggling network.
The investigation has also uncovered that Rao allegedly arranged funds through hawala channels to finance her gold purchases. Hawala, an informal method of transferring money without physical movement, is often utilized for illicit transactions due to its untraceable nature. This revelation has added complexity to the case, indicating a broader network of financial and logistical support underpinning the smuggling operations.
Rao's bail applications have been consistently denied by various courts. The 64th CCH Sessions Court in Bengaluru rejected her bail plea on March 27, following earlier denials by the Special Court for Economic Offences and the Magistrate Court. The courts have cited the ongoing investigation and the substantial evidence against her as reasons for denying bail.
In a related development, Karnataka's Director General of Police Ramachandra Rao, who is also Rao's stepfather, has been placed on compulsory leave. This action follows claims that a protocol officer, allegedly acting under the DGP's instructions, assisted Rao at the Bengaluru airport during her smuggling attempts. The involvement of high-ranking officials has raised concerns about the extent of the smuggling network and potential breaches within law enforcement agencies.
Further complicating the case, Rao has accused DRI officers of assault and coercion during her interrogation. She alleges that she was forced to sign documents under duress while in custody. These claims have sparked discussions about interrogation practices and the treatment of suspects in custody.