The Karnataka government has initiated a probe into allegations that Kannada actor Ranya Rao misused VIP privileges to bypass security checks while smuggling gold. The investigation, led by Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta, will examine how Rao evaded airport security, the role of state officials in facilitating her movement, and any potential involvement of Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation MD Ramachandra Rao.
A government order dated March 10 mandates a report within a week, detailing how Rao managed to exploit security protocols. Departments, including the Karnataka police and the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms, have been instructed to cooperate fully with the inquiry.
Ranya Rao was apprehended at Bengaluru Airport for allegedly smuggling gold worth ₹14.56 crore. During a court appearance on Monday, she broke down, claiming she was “traumatised and emotionally broken.” She further alleged that she faced verbal threats and mistreatment while in the custody of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
The DRI suspects that Rao had strong ties in Dubai and was part of a broader gold smuggling network. Investigators believe she smuggled gold bars by securing them around her thighs, shins, and waist using tape and crepe bandages before boarding her flight in Dubai. Upon arrival in Bengaluru, a state protocol officer reportedly facilitated her bypassing immigration and security checks, allowing her to evade metal detectors.
According to sources within the DRI, Rao has provided three recorded statements containing incriminating details and has not denied most of the allegations. The agency is also investigating other individuals involved in the case. Her mobile phone and laptop have been seized, though authorities have yet to access their contents.
Ranya Rao, who is the stepdaughter of Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation DGP Ramachandra Rao, was under surveillance due to her frequent travels to Dubai—reportedly visiting the city 30 times in a year, including four trips in just 15 days. She was arrested earlier this week while attempting to smuggle nearly 15kg of gold. Subsequent raids at her Bengaluru residence led to the recovery of gold jewellery worth ₹2.06 crore and ₹2.67 crore in cash.
Additionally, her husband, Jatin Hukkeri, was also found to have frequently traveled to Dubai with her. Authorities consider this one of the largest gold smuggling cases in Karnataka’s history.
