Kannada Actress Ranya Rao Under Investigation for Gold Smuggling
Kannada actress Ranya Rao is under investigation by the Income Tax Department for her alleged involvement in a gold smuggling case. Following her arrest at Bengaluru Airport, she faces serious charges under the Customs Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act. The interrogation, set to take place over three days, aims to uncover the financial networks behind the smuggling operation. Despite being granted bail earlier, Rao remains in custody due to a separate legal matter. This case raises significant questions about the sources of funds used for the illicit gold purchase and the potential involvement of accomplices.
| Jun 11, 2025, 15:59 IST
Investigation Details
Kannada actress Ranya Rao is set to be interrogated by the Income Tax Department regarding a gold smuggling case over the next three days. A special court for economic offenses has granted permission for this questioning, which will take place from today until June 13, between 10 AM and 5 PM. Following the court's orders, the interrogation will be recorded on video inside the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, where Rao is currently detained. She was arrested on March 3 at Bengaluru Airport for allegedly smuggling gold, reportedly concealing gold bars around her waist and calves using straps and tissue during a thorough personal search. Additional gold bars and cut pieces were also discovered in her shoes and front pockets. The seized gold is said to have a purity of 24 carats, valued at over ₹12.56 crores. Rao faces charges under the Customs Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act.
Financial Investigation
The Income Tax Department is probing the source of funds used to purchase the smuggled gold. The questioning, led by Inspector Shweta and Inspector Ravipal, aims to shed light on potential financial networks and identify any accomplices involved in the operation. On June 3, Rao's mother filed a habeas corpus petition in the Karnataka High Court, challenging the legality of her daughter's detention in the gold smuggling case.
Legal Proceedings
Ranya Rao was granted bail by a special court for economic offenses on May 20; however, she remains in custody due to a separate case filed under the Foreign Exchange Management Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, 1974 (COFEPOSA).