How frequent Dubai trips, same clothes helped catch Ranya Rao
What's the story
Kannada film star Ranya Rao was detained at Bengaluru airport earlier this week for allegedly smuggling 14.8kg of gold from Dubai. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) estimated the value of the seized gold to be approximately ₹13 crore. Rao, who is also the stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, came under the scanner due to her frequent trips to Dubai. Officials also noticed how she would travel in identical clothes. Here's how the elaborate system was cracked.
Surveillance details
Rao visited Dubai 30 times this last year
Authorities observed that Rao had traveled to Dubai 30+ times over the past year, which raised suspicions of illegal activities. Four of these trips came within the span of 15 days. It is alleged she smuggled gold on each of these trips. On Monday, DRI officials were alert and intercepted her at Bengaluru airport with gold bars hidden in modified jackets and belts. During interrogation, Rao claimed she was blackmailed into smuggling.
Investigation progress
Police assistance in Rao's alleged smuggling activities
Authorities have learned that Rao was able to clear customs with the help of police. A police constable named Basavaraju is said to have assisted her in skipping security checks at the airport. CCTV footage showed government vehicles picking up Rao after she cleared customs, further implicating the involvement of law enforcement personnel in her smuggling operations.
Raid details
Seizure of assets and investigation into Rao's network
Following Rao's arrest, DRI officials also raided her residence on Lavelle Road in Bengaluru. They recovered gold jewelry worth ₹2.06 crore and cash of ₹2.67 crore from her home, taking the total value of assets seized to ₹17.29 crore. Investigators are now looking into whether Rao was acting alone or if she was part of a larger smuggling network.
Family statement
Meanwhile, Rao's family has distanced themselves
Rao's stepfather, DGP Ramachandra Rao, has distanced himself from her alleged smuggling activities. He said she hadn't been in touch with the family since marrying Jatin Hukkeri, an architect, four months ago. Meanwhile, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara refused to comment on the case since it is under investigation.