Ranya Rao Linked to Gold Smuggling Syndicate; Investigation Targets Key Figures and International Connections
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Synopsis
The investigation into Ranya Rao's arrest has unveiled her participation in a gold smuggling network, with significant commissions received for transporting gold from Dubai to Bengaluru, raising concerns about potential international connections.
Key Takeaways
- Ranya Rao, daughter of an IPS officer, linked to gold smuggling.
- Received substantial commissions for smuggling operations.
- Investigation targets international kingpins involved.
- DRI and ED collaborating on the case.
- Involvement of airport personnel suspected.
Bengaluru, March 6 (NationPress) The inquiry into the apprehension of Kannada actress Ranya Rao, whose father is a current IPS officer, has uncovered her involvement in a gold smuggling ring, where she received substantial commissions for transporting goods from Dubai to Bengaluru.
The investigation has indicated that Ranya was engaged in smuggling gold under the direction of prominent kingpins, with the international network being extensive. Sources have disclosed that the actress lacked the financial means to afford gold valued at Rs 17.29 crore.
Authorities discovered that she was compensated between Rs 4 lakh and Rs 5 lakh for each kilogram of gold smuggled from Dubai to Bengaluru. The kingpins exploited her connection as the daughter of a serving IPS officer, taking advantage of her status to facilitate their operations.
Investigators suspect the involvement of personnel at Bengaluru International Airport, according to sources.
The focus of the probe is now on identifying the recipients of the gold. Officers are scrutinizing Ranya Rao's bank statements and analyzing transactions from the past two years. Her mobile phone has been confiscated, and information extracted from the device is being used to uncover details about the smuggling network.
In the meantime, sources have indicated that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is expected to take over the case following the recovery of significant amounts of gold and cash from Ranya Rao at the airport and her home.
DRI officials have been sharing information regarding the seizure of Rs 2.67 crore in alleged unaccounted cash from her residence with the ED. Reports suggest she may face charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Sources further stated that Ranya Rao did not comply with security protocols at the airport and reportedly threatened officers, citing her status as the daughter of the DGP. This raised suspicions, prompting DRI to monitor her activities.
Additionally, the police escort who allegedly accompanied her from the airport is also under investigation.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials detained the Kannada actress after seizing 14.8 kg of gold from her at the Bengaluru International Airport on Monday night.
She was taken into custody upon her arrival on an Emirates flight from Dubai. The DRI had been tracking her movements due to her frequent travels to Dubai.
