Ranya Rao Arrested for Gold Smuggling: The Details and Implications

Ranya Rao, a Kannada actress, was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport for attempting to smuggle 14 kilograms of gold without any declaration or receipts. Following the discovery during a personal search, authorities found significant cash and jewellery at her home. The Karnataka government has launched an investigation into potential police involvement in the incident.

Ranya Rao, a Kannada actress, was apprehended at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport for attempting to smuggle 14 kilograms of gold. Upon her arrival on March 4 via an Emirates flight from Dubai, the Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted her based on intelligence reports. Despite undergoing a personal search, she initially denied possessing dutiable goods or contraband, failing to provide a purchase receipt for the gold she carried concealed on her body.

The gold was discovered after a metal detector indicated its presence. DRI officials found gold bars hidden beneath her clothing and in her shoes, totaling approximately 14,213.05 grams of 24-karat gold. The legal allowance under the Customs Act, 1962, is valued at Rs 1 crore, implying significant duty evasion amounting to Rs 4.83 crore in her case.

Upon searching her residence, investigators uncovered Rs 2.67 crore in cash and jewellery worth over Rs 2 crore, for which Rao could not provide legitimate source documentation. Previous customs declarations suggested she had bought gold in Dubai, intending to travel to Geneva, but ended up smuggling it into India instead.

Concerns about her potential for further smuggling prompted authorities to detain her, as she is believed to be linked to a broader syndicate with extensive resources. The DRI’s arrest memo indicated that she has not fully cooperated in the ongoing investigation, raising red flags about possible evidence tampering.

The Karnataka government has initiated a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry into this case, scrutinizing the potential involvement of local police in any collusive activities. Furthermore, a separate investigation involving her step-father, DGP Ramachandra Rao, has also been ordered.

Ranya Rao’s arrest highlights a significant gold smuggling incident involving large sums of undeclared goods and potential connections to organized crime. The discovery of substantial cash and jewellery at her residence further complicates the case, prompting state-level investigations into the involvement of law enforcement personnel. This case raises important questions about customs enforcement and the integrity of current smuggling regulations.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com