Ranya Rao Arrested for Gold Smuggling Attempt: A Detailed Overview

Ranya Rao, a Kannada actor, was arrested for attempting to smuggle 14 kg of gold into India upon arrival from Dubai without declaring it. A search of her residence unearthed significant cash and jewellery, raising suspicions of her involvement in a larger smuggling operation. Investigations by the Karnataka CID will probe potential collusion within law enforcement pertaining to this case.

On March 4, Kannada actor Ranya Rao was apprehended at Kempegowda International Airport after arriving on an Emirates flight from Dubai. She attempted to smuggle 14 kilograms of gold and falsely declared that she had no dutiable goods. Despite extensive scanning protocols, the gold was ultimately found concealed on her body and within her personal items.

The authorities discovered a total of 14,213.050 grams of 24 karat gold hidden on her person and in her shoes. Following this discovery, a search at her residence revealed Rs 2.67 crore in cash, alongside jewellery valued at over Rs 2 crore. Rao could not substantiate the origins of the cash or provide invoices for the jewellery.

Rao’s travel declarations indicated previous purchases of gold in Dubai intended for Geneva, highlighting her deceptive travel patterns. She was subsequently charged with duty evasion, amounting to Rs 4.83 crore, which significantly exceeded the permissible limit.

Given her history of multiple trips to Dubai, authorities expressed concerns that she might continue her smuggling activities. Additionally, Rao has not fully cooperated with the investigation, prompting fears of evidence tampering. Her detainment aims to disrupt her potential involvement in a larger smuggling syndicate.

The Karnataka government has mandated the Criminal Investigation Department to investigate potential police collusion in this case, specifically focusing on Rao’s step-father, DGP Ramachandra Rao. This inquiry aims to address possible procedural lapses and the broader implications of the alleged smuggling activities.

In summation, Ranya Rao’s arrest underscores the serious implications of gold smuggling and the associated legal ramifications. The substantial amounts of undeclared gold and cash discovered raise significant concerns regarding possible organized smuggling operations. The ongoing investigations by the Criminal Investigation Department reflect the state’s commitment to addressing these issues thoroughly and could reveal further complexities in this case.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com