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Bengaluru, March 4, 2025 — In a significant enforcement action, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) detained Kannada film actress Ranya Rao at Bengaluru International Airport on Monday night, following the discovery of 14.8 kilograms of gold in her possession.
Background and Arrest Details
Ranya Rao, known for her roles in films such as "Maanikya" (2014) and "Pataki" (2017), arrived on an Emirates flight from Dubai. Her frequent travels to the United Arab Emirates had placed her under DRI surveillance. Upon her arrival, officials conducted a search and reportedly found that she had concealed gold by wearing it inconspicuously and hiding gold bars within her clothing.
Alleged Misrepresentation and Investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest that Rao falsely identified herself as the daughter of the Director General of Police (DGP) upon arrival. She allegedly contacted local police for transportation, potentially exploiting her claimed identity to avoid scrutiny. The DRI is examining whether these officers or her IPS relative were complicit or unknowingly involved.
DRI Surveillance and Legal Proceedings
Authorities became suspicious after noting that Rao had traveled to Dubai four times within the last 15 days. Following her detention, she was taken to the DRI headquarters in Bengaluru's HBR Layout for questioning. She is expected to be presented before a Bengaluru court later on Tuesday.
Ongoing Investigation
The DRI is investigating whether Rao acted independently or as part of a larger smuggling network. An official statement from the DRI is pending, and further details are anticipated as the investigation progresses.
About Ranya Rao
Ranya Rao hails from Chikmagalur, Karnataka, and holds an engineering degree from Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering in Bangalore. She trained at the Kishore Namit Kapoor Acting Institute before entering the film industry. Her filmography includes notable roles in both Kannada and Tamil cinema.
This arrest has sent shockwaves through the Kannada film industry, and authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation unfolds. (agencies)