Authorities have arrested Kannada actor Ranya Rao for her involvement in a gold smuggling racket. On Tuesday, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) informed the court that Rao and her associate, actor Tarun Raju, took at least 26 round trips to Dubai, smuggling gold into India each time.

Suspicious Travel Patterns Raise Red Flags

During a court hearing, DRI officials exposed new details that raised serious concerns. According to an India Today report, Rao and Raju frequently flew to Dubai in the morning and returned by evening. This unusual travel pattern caught the attention of investigators, leading to a deeper probe.

While opposing Tarun Raju’s bail plea, the DRI highlighted these suspicious trips. Authorities arrested him shortly after they caught Ranya Rao red-handed smuggling gold at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport.

Financial Transactions Link Rao and Raju

Both actors now face charges under the Customs Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act. Investigators uncovered financial records linking Raju to Rao, strengthening the case against them. Reports indicate that Rao transferred money to Raju’s account, which he then used to book flight tickets for their Dubai-Hyderabad trips. Officials claim they have solid proof that Raju played a key role in the smuggling operation.

52 Dubai Trips in Two Years

Between 2023 and March 2025, Ranya Rao traveled to Dubai 52 times. Investigators found that Raju joined her on at least 26 of those trips. Authorities believe they used these quick return flights to smuggle gold into India.

After officials issued a circular notice against him, Raju tried to flee the country. However, authorities acted quickly to stop him, ensuring all necessary documents were submitted to the court.

Bail Plea Adjourned Until March 19

The court has postponed Ranya Rao’s bail plea to March 19. The CCH 64th Sessions Court ordered the DRI to submit its objections before the next hearing. Earlier, the Special Court for Economic Offenses had already rejected her bail request, citing the serious nature of the charges.

Step-Father, DGP-Rank Officer, Questioned

Investigators have also questioned IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, Ranya Rao’s stepfather, regarding the case. A team led by Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta recorded his statement.

CBI Registers FIR in Smuggling Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has now filed an FIR in the gold smuggling case. The complaint was lodged by Abhishek Chandra Gupta, Additional Director of the DRI, further escalating the legal action against the accused.