Lagatar24 Desk
Bengaluru: Kannada actor Ranya Rao, who is currently in custody for her involvement in a gold smuggling racket, took 52 trips to Dubai in the past two years, including at least 26 with actor friend Tarun Raju, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) told the court on Tuesday.
During a court proceeding, the DRI revealed that Rao and Raju’s frequent same-day trips to Dubai raised suspicion, with investigators now confirming financial links between them. Reports suggest that these visits were used to smuggle gold into India.
Travel Pattern Raises Eyebrows
According to the DRI, Rao and Raju frequently traveled to Dubai, often leaving in the morning and returning by evening. This unusual travel pattern triggered an investigation, leading to their arrests. The agency also disclosed that Raju’s flight tickets from Dubai to Hyderabad were booked using money sent by Rao.
Both actors have been booked under the Customs Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, with officials claiming strong evidence linking them to a smuggling network.
Ranya Rao’s Bail Plea Adjourned
The court has adjourned Rao’s bail plea till March 19, directing the DRI’s counsel to file objections before the next hearing. Earlier, her bail application was rejected by the Special Court for Economic Offenses due to the severity of the charges against her.
Meanwhile, Tarun Raju, arrested soon after Rao, also applied for bail, but the DRI has strongly opposed his plea, citing his direct involvement in gold smuggling operations.
Ranya Rao’s Step-Father Questioned
The case took another turn as IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, who is Ranya Rao’s stepfather, was questioned on Monday by a special investigation team. His statement was recorded in connection with the gold smuggling case.
Ranya Rao was arrested on March 3, 2025, at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, when DRI officials intercepted her carrying gold concealed in her clothing. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has now filed an FIR based on a complaint by DRI Additional Director Abhishek Chandra Gupta, further tightening the noose around the accused.
