Karnataka launches probe into Ranya Rao’s VIP privileges in Rs 12 crore gold smuggling case

The Karnataka government has initiated a high-level investigation into the alleged misuse of VIP airport protocol by actress Ranya Rao, who was recently arrested by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for smuggling gold bars worth Rs 12 crore from Dubai to Bengaluru. The probe will also examine the potential involvement of her stepfather, Dr. K. Ramachandra Rao, an IPS officer and Director General of Police (DGP) in Karnataka.


According to NDTV reports, Ranya Rao is accused of exploiting VIP privileges, typically reserved for senior officials, to bypass security checks and smuggle gold. Reports suggest she used her father’s influence as Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation to gain unauthorized access to restricted airport areas. In response, the Karnataka government has appointed IAS officer Gaurav Gupta as the investigating officer, with a final report expected within a week.


Meanwhile, Ranya Rao, who was presented in court on Friday, appeared visibly distressed. Overcome with emotion, she broke down while speaking with her legal team. “I keep wondering why I got involved in this. My mind keeps replaying that day at the airport. I can't sleep… I'm experiencing severe mental trauma,” she tearfully confided to her lawyers, according to the sources.

On the work front, Ranya Rao was last seen in the film ‘Pataki’ where she played the character named Sangeetha. The movie hit the big screens in 2017 and had Ganesh and Sai Kumar in the lead roles. ‘Pataki’ was directed by Manju Swaraj. On the other hand, Ranya Rao is also known for her roles in the films ‘Wagah’, and ‘Maanikya’ which hit the big screens in 2016 and 2014 respectively.