Lagatar24 Desk
Bengaluru: Actor Ranya Rao, accused of gold smuggling, had meticulously planned the operation and even referred to YouTube tutorials to learn how to conceal the 14 kg gold bars in her clothing, according to a document submitted by authorities while opposing her bail plea.
The document also details how Ranya Rao, the stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, received the gold consignment in Dubai before attempting to smuggle it into India.
Dubai Airport Meeting with an “Unknown Person”
According to her interrogation statement, Ranya Rao was instructed via an internet call to collect the gold from Gate A of Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport.
• She met an unknown man, described as six feet tall, dressed in a white gown, with a wheatish complexion and a rough American accent.
• The meeting took place at the dining lounge of the airport.
• The man handed over two packets wrapped in a thick tarpaulin plastic material in a secluded corner.
Pre-Planned Smuggling Strategy
Ranya Rao had prepared for the smuggling attempt well in advance:
• She bought an adhesive tape from a stationery shop near the airport.
• Since scissors were not allowed at the airport, she pre-cut pieces of tape and kept them in her bag.
• After collecting the gold, she went straight to a washroom to hide the gold bars.
• She referred to YouTube tutorials to learn how to conceal gold in her body.
Gold Concealment Method
• She found 12 gold bars and some cut pieces inside the packets.
• She wrapped the gold bars around her calf muscle and waist using the adhesive tape.
• The smaller pieces were hidden in her shoes and pockets.
Arrival in Bengaluru and Arrest
Ranya Rao boarded an Emirates flight to Bengaluru on March 3.
• She successfully cleared security at Kempegowda International Airport with the alleged help of an insider officer.
• However, she was intercepted just before exiting the airport by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI)officers.
• Her frequent foreign trips—27 visits to Dubai in six months, including four in just 15 days, had raised suspicions.
• Upon investigation, the gold was found hidden in her clothing, leading to her immediate arrest.
Investigators Suspect a Bigger Syndicate
The DRI suspects a massive gold smuggling network behind this operation and is now probing the entire racket, including possible airport security involvement.
