Synopsis
The DRI conducted a raid on Ranya Rao's residence in Bengaluru, seizing cash and gold worth crores following her arrest for smuggling gold from Dubai. Investigations are ongoing into her connections and potential complicity of law enforcement.Key Takeaways
- DRI raids Ranya Rao's flat
- Significant cash and gold seized
- Investigation into potential accomplices
- Frequent trips to Dubai under scrutiny
- Rao's family distancing from her
Bengaluru, March 5 (NationPress) - On Wednesday, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted a raid at the residence of jailed Kannada actress Ranya Rao in Bengaluru, where they confiscated an extensive amount of cash and gold valued at crores of rupees.
This operation was initiated following Rao’s arrest at Bengaluru International Airport, where authorities apprehended her for smuggling 14.8 kg of gold. From her luxurious Lavelle Road flat, the DRI recovered gold worth Rs 2.06 crore and cash amounting to Rs 2.67 crore, with her flat's rent reportedly being Rs 4.5 lakh.
At 32 years old, Ranya Rao is the offspring of Ramachandra Rao, the Director General of Police (Police Housing Corporation), who has publicly distanced himself from her, stating that they have not communicated since her marriage four months ago.
Authorities reported that the actress was taken into custody Monday night upon her return from an Emirates flight from Dubai. A team of four DRI officers was present at the airport, having received intelligence about her arrival.
The DRI had been surveilling her frequent travels to Dubai, which consisted of four trips within 15 days.
Investigators discovered that she had smuggled gold bars hidden in her belt and clothing, using her father’s title to avoid drawing suspicion.
Upon landing, she would contact police personnel for a ride home.
The DRI is currently examining if any police officials or an IPS officer related to her were complicit in the gold smuggling scheme or if she acted independently.
Moreover, authorities are looking into whether she had a history of trafficking gold.
After her arrest, she was taken to the DRI headquarters for interrogation and subsequently presented in court, where she was placed in judicial custody.
Ranya Rao has appeared alongside Kannada superstar Sudeep in the film Maanikya and has featured in various other South Indian productions.
