Kannada actress Ranya Rao, arrested with 14 kg gold worth ₹12.56 crore, faces judicial custody; DGP stepfather expresses shock and disappointment.
March 7, 2025: DGP Ramachandra Rao ‘Unaware’ of Stepdaughter Ranya Rao’s Business Affairs Amid Gold Smuggling Case
Kannada actress arrested at Bengaluru airport with 14 kg gold worth ₹12.56 crore, DGP stepfather expresses shock.
Bengaluru: Kannada actress Ranya Rao, who was arrested for allegedly smuggling gold while returning from Dubai, continues to be at the center of a major controversy. The case has now taken a political and social turn after her stepfather, Karnataka DGP Ramachandra Rao, distanced himself from the allegations, stating that he was completely unaware of her business affairs.
Also Read: Actor Ranya Rao Arrested in Gold Smuggling Case, Made 27 Dubai Trips in a Year
DGP’s Reaction: “A Huge Disappointment”
Speaking to ANI, Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation, expressed shock and disappointment over the case.
“Ranya was married to Jatin Hukkeri four months ago. Post marriage, she never visited our house. We are completely unaware of her and her husband Jatin’s business affairs,” he said.
He further stated that he had no knowledge of her alleged involvement in gold smuggling and reiterated that “the law will take its course” if any wrongdoing is found.
Ranya Rao’s Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
- Ranya Rao was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport on March 4 while returning from Dubai.
- She was caught with 14.2 kg of gold, valued at ₹12.56 crore, concealed in her clothing.
- The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) confirmed the seizure and has been investigating the case.
- Authorities suspect that Ranya may have attempted to use her connections to bypass customs checks.
Judicial Custody and Further Developments
- On March 4, she was produced before a special court for financial offences and was remanded to judicial custody until March 18.
- Before her transfer, she was taken for a medical examination at Bowring Hospital in Bengaluru.
- During questioning, Ranya claimed she was in Dubai for business purposes, but authorities suspect her visit was linked to gold smuggling operations.
Husband Jatin Hukkeri’s Silence
- Jatin Hukkeri, Ranya’s husband, has not released any statement regarding his wife’s arrest.
- His office has remained silent amid growing speculation about his role in the controversy.
Public and Political Reactions
- The case has sparked widespread discussions, with some questioning whether influential connections were misused.
- As investigations continue, authorities are trying to determine whether Ranya acted alone or was part of a larger smuggling network.
With the case now unfolding in court, all eyes remain on the legal proceedings and any further revelations regarding Ranya Rao’s alleged involvement in gold smuggling.
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#RanyaRao, #GoldSmuggling, #Dubai, #DGPStatement, #KarnatakaPolice, #CrimeNews, #KannadaCinema, #Customs, #DRI, #JudicialCustody