Ranya Rao Detained in Gold Smuggling Case Until March 10

Ranya Rao, an Indian actress and stepdaughter of an IPS officer, has been remanded by the DRI until March 10 regarding a gold smuggling case involving 14.2 kg of gold bars. The DRI cited national security concerns and is investigating the source of the gold. The incident has led to discussions of potential changes in policy related to protocol misuse, given her connections. Further investigations have revealed substantial monetary seizures linked to her activities.

Actor Ranya Rao, the stepdaughter of senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, was ordered to be detained until March 10 in a gold smuggling case. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested her at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, where she was allegedly found with 14.2 kg of gold bars valued at approximately Rs 14.5 crore. Authorities are investigating the origins and destination of the gold, citing a potential threat to national security.

A special court for economic offences granted the DRI custody of Ms. Rao while instructing her to assist the investigators. She is permitted to meet her lawyer for half an hour daily, and the DRI must ensure her safety and provide basic facilities as dictated by Supreme Court guidelines. Following the ruling, Ms. Rao was visibly emotional, breaking down in the courtroom.

The investigation into Ms. Rao intensified after her frequent travels to Dubai, with officials noting she made four trips in just 15 days. Upon questioning, she reportedly admitted to carrying 17 gold bars and has traveled extensively internationally. It has been indicated that she was involved in a smuggling operation, earning substantial commissions of Rs 4-5 lakh per kilogram of gold she transported from Dubai.

The seizure of the gold marks one of the most significant confiscations at Bengaluru airport in recent times. Further investigations at Ms. Rao’s home resulted in the discovery of gold jewelry valued at Rs 2.06 crore and Rs 2.67 crore in cash. Allegations of her misuse of protocol policies for smuggling prompted Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara to consider reforming the policies, directing the Director General of Police to assess the situation.

Ms. Rao identified her father, KS Hegdesh, as a real estate businessman, while her husband, Jatin Hukkeri, is an architect residing with her in Bengaluru. Ramachandra Rao, her stepfather and Director-General of Police for the Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation, has denied any link to the smuggling allegations, expressing devastation over the situation involving his stepdaughter.

In summary, Ranya Rao, an actor with connections to law enforcement, has been detained for involvement in a significant gold smuggling operation, raising concerns for national security. The DRI’s investigation focuses on the gold’s origins and her frequent travels. The incident has prompted discussions on potential policy changes regarding protocol misuse. The ramifications of her actions not only impact her career but also entail legal scrutiny for her family.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com