In a significant crackdown on gold smuggling, authorities arrested Kannada actress Ranya Rao at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on March 4, 2025. Officials allege she attempted to smuggle 14.8 kilograms of gold, valued at over Rs.12 crore, into India from Dubai.
Arrest Details
Ranya Rao arrived in Bengaluru on an Emirates flight from Dubai. Acting on prior intelligence, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) had placed her under surveillance due to her frequent trips between India and Dubai. Upon her arrival, officials conducted a thorough search and discovered the concealed gold in her luggage. Subsequently, authorities arrested her for violating customs regulations related to gold smuggling.
Background of Ranya Rao
Born on May 28, 1991, in Chikkamangaluru, Karnataka, Ranya Rao pursued a career in South Indian cinema. She debuted in the 2014 Kannada film “Maanikya,” directed by Sudeep, where she played a supporting role. She later appeared in the Tamil film “Wagah” (2016) and the Kannada movie “Pataki” (2017), portraying diverse characters that showcased her acting versatility.
Family Connections and Stepfather’s Past Controversy
Ranya Rao is the stepdaughter of K. Ramachandra Rao, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who currently serves as the Director General of Police (DGP) in Karnataka. In 2014, during his tenure as Inspector General of Police (IGP) for the Southern Range, K. Ramachandra Rao faced allegations related to a cash seizure incident near Yelwal, Mysuru. Police intercepted a private bus en route to Kerala and reported seizing ₹20 lakh. However, merchants from Kerala claimed the actual amount was Rs.2.27 crore and accused the police of misappropriating a significant portion of the funds. A Criminal Investigation Department (CID) probe revealed lapses in the handling of the case under Rao’s supervision, leading to his transfer.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
Following Ranya Rao’s arrest, DGP K. Ramachandra Rao expressed shock and stated he had no involvement in her activities. He emphasized that he had distanced himself from her personal matters and was unaware of her alleged involvement in gold smuggling.
The DRI continues its investigation to uncover the extent of the smuggling operation and identify any potential accomplices. Authorities are also examining whether Ranya Rao leveraged her connections to bypass security protocols during her travels.
Implications for the Film Industry
This incident has sent shockwaves through the Kannada film industry, commonly known as Sandalwood. Colleagues express disbelief as Ranya Rao faces legal scrutiny for alleged gold smuggling, raising concerns about Sandalwood’s reputation and justice.
