The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in India's Bengaluru arrested Kannada actress Ranya Rao at Kempegowda International Airport, recovering 14.8 kg of gold from her possession, local media reported on Wednesday.
Ranya, who flew in on an Emirates flight from Dubai on Monday night, had been under the DRI's radar due to her frequent international travels. Authorities revealed she had managed to wear most of the gold discreetly and concealed gold bars within her clothing.
The actress, daughter of a senior DGP-ranked IPS officer in Karnataka, is now facing scrutiny over potential law enforcement connections.
Initial reports suggest that Ranya would claim to be the DGP’s daughter upon arrival and would request local police escorts to her home. The DRI is investigating if any officers were involved, knowingly or unknowingly, in her smuggling activities.
Ranya, famous for her role in Maanikya opposite Kannada superstar Sudeep, has appeared in several other South Indian films. The DRI had been tracking her after noticing that she had made four trips to Dubai within just 15 days. Acting on this, the agency intercepted her on arrival.
After her arrest, Ranya was taken to the DRI headquarters for further questioning. She was later produced in court and sent to 14-day judicial custody.
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