In a significant development, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has accused actor Ranya Rao of being an integral part of a gold smuggling syndicate that allegedly misused airport VIP protocols to smuggle gold into India. The actor was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport on Monday night after she arrived from Dubai on an Emirates flight, carrying gold bars weighing 14.2 kg, valued at Rs 14.56 crore.
The investigation has revealed that the accused used an elaborate modus operandi, wrapping the gold bars in crepe bandages and tissues to evade detection. The DRI is now focused on uncovering the entire syndicate behind this operation.
Adding complexity to the case, the DRI has noted physical injuries on Rao’s face and below her eyes. The actor informed the agency that these injuries were sustained before her travel to Dubai. A court has directed prison authorities to ensure she receives necessary medical aid.
During the hearing, Rao’s counsel sought permission for her legal representative to be physically present during custodial interrogation, rather than merely within hearing distance. However, this request was strongly opposed by Madhu Rao, senior standing counsel for the Ministry of Finance, who emphasized the sensitive nature of the case and its national security implications. The court rejected the plea and ordered specific conditions for her custody.
According to the DRI, Rao has not been fully cooperating with the investigation and has frequently become emotionally distressed. She reportedly broke down in court when produced before the judge on Friday. The agency has stated that forensic analysis findings will be used to confront her during interrogation to extract further details.
The court has remanded Ranya Rao to DRI custody for three days under strict conditions. Her legal counsel is permitted to meet her between 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm daily, but only in the presence of agency officials. She is not allowed to meet family members or any other individuals.
With the DRI intensifying its probe, the case is expected to uncover more details about the syndicate’s operations and the extent of VIP protocol misuse in smuggling activities.
