Why is Ranya Rao's husband caught in the gold scandal?
What's the story
Jatin Hukkeri, the husband of Kannada actor Ranya Rao, is under police scanner after she was arrested for gold smuggling. Rao was arrested at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport with 14.8kg of gold. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence had been keeping an eye on her due to her frequent trips to Dubai, including four visits in 15 days. Now, Hukkeri is being probed for his possible role in the smuggling racket.
Suspect profile
Hukkeri's potential involvement in smuggling operation
Hukkeri, who studied at Bengaluru's RV College of Engineering and the Royal College of Art-Executive Education London, is an architect famous for his hospitality design work. He serves clients such as Hangover, Bangalore XOOX, and Brewmill. He married Rao in a grand ceremony at the Taj West End a few months ago and lives with her in a posh apartment in Lavelle Road, Bengaluru. Officials are zeroing in on Hukkeri as he accompanied Rao on several trips to Dubai.
Professional expertise
Take a look at Hukkeri's areas of expertise
Per his LinkedIn profile, he is an "experienced architectural designer with a demonstrated history of working in the hospitality, architecture & planning industry." He is reportedly skilled in "architectural interiors, custom interiors, recreation, design, and entertainment." He is the founder and creative director of WDA Spaces.
Seizure details
Seized assets and Rao's smuggling method revealed
Rao reportedly smuggled gold by wearing it and hiding bars in her clothes. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence seized gold worth ₹12.56 crore under the Customs Act of 1962. She made around ₹12-13 lakh per trip after smuggling gold, reported India Today.
Family response
Rao's claims and family reaction to arrest
Rao, who is now in judicial custody, alleges she was blackmailed into the smuggling operation. Her stepfather, K Ramachandra Rao, a senior police officer, was shocked over her arrest. "I was also shocked and devastated when such an incident came to my notice through the media; I was not aware of any of these things; like any other father I was also shocked," he told ANI.