The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has made a serious allegation in its gold smuggling investigation involving actress Ranya Rao. The agency’s probe has revealed a sophisticated syndicate that exploited VIP protocols at the airport to smuggle gold. Investigators believe that Ranya Rao played a significant role in this operation.
Complicating the case further, the agency has reported visible signs of physical abuse on the actress’ body, particularly on her face and below her eyes. However, Ranya Rao has claimed that these injuries occurred well before her trip to Dubai. Acknowledging this, the court has instructed prison authorities to provide the necessary medical aid. Her counsel highlighted these injuries in court and requested that any custodial interrogation be conducted in the presence of her advocate, not just within hearing distance but also within sight. This request was strongly opposed by Madhu Rao, the senior standing counsel for the Ministry of Finance.
“This is a case where protocols have been misused extensively, and it’s a question of national security and the investigation details are sensitive,” Madhu Rao stated in court. The court ultimately denied the request from Ranya Rao’s legal team.
The actress, who is the stepdaughter of senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on Monday night for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold bars worth Rs 14.56 crore. She had arrived in Bengaluru on an Emirates flight from Dubai.
During her court appearance on Friday, Ranya Rao broke down in tears. The DRI informed the court that she was not fully cooperating with the investigation and was often becoming emotionally distressed. The agency plans to use forensic analysis to confront her with evidence and extract crucial details about the syndicate’s operations. According to the DRI, the accused smuggled gold by wrapping gold bars with crepe bandages and tissues around her body.
As the investigation deepens, the court has remanded Ranya Rao to DRI custody for three days, imposing strict conditions. The court has allowed her advocate to visit her daily between 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm in the presence of agency officials. However, she is barred from meeting any family members or other individuals during this period. With authorities determined to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network, the case continues to unfold with significant legal and investigative ramifications.
