What Led to the ₹89 Crore Penalty on Actor Ranya Rao? Insights into the Gold Smuggling Case

Karnataka Home Minister Responds to Ranya Rao's Case

Bengaluru: On Thursday, Karnataka's Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated that he lacks full details regarding the Customs Department's recent decision to impose a hefty ₹89 crore fine on actress Ranya Rao, who is embroiled in a gold smuggling investigation. He mentioned he would provide a response once he gathers more information.

Kharge informed the media in Bengaluru, "I am not fully aware of the details surrounding the penalty. I will respond once I have the necessary information."

The Customs Department has levied a fine of ₹89 crore against Ranya Rao, who was detained by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for her alleged involvement in smuggling gold from overseas, although she has since been released on bail.

A notice has been issued by Customs Joint Commissioner Sandeep, mandating Ranya Rao to pay the imposed penalty, which is supported by a comprehensive 399-page investigation report.

The investigation revealed that Ranya Rao, along with her associate Tarun and three others, purportedly smuggled a total of 113 kg of gold from various foreign locations between March 7, 2024, and February 18, 2025.

The case gained attention when DRI officials apprehended Ranya Rao at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on March 3, 2025, after allegedly seizing 14 kg of gold from her.

Following her arrest, a case was filed under the COFEPOSA Act, leading to an inquiry into the suspected gold smuggling operation. The Customs investigation subsequently implicated Ranya Rao, Tarun, and three others in the gold smuggling activities over the specified one-year timeframe.

In February of this year, Ranya Rao was granted bail by the Special Court for Economic Offences.

The Customs Department has now formalized the penalty order, accompanied by its detailed investigation findings, as part of the ongoing proceedings related to the alleged gold smuggling case.