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A Bengaluru Special Court for Economic Offences has dismissed the bail plea of Kannada actress Ranya Rao, who was arrested on March 3 at Kempegowda International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.8 kilograms of gold from Dubai.
A Bengaluru Special Court for Economic Offences has denied bail to Kannada actress Ranya Rao, who was arrested on March 3 at Kempegowda International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.8 kilograms of gold from Dubai.
The court, presided over by Judge Vishwanath C. Gowdar, cited the severity of the charges as the basis for its decision, agreeing with the prosecution's argument that Rao should remain in judicial custody.
Rao's initial bail plea was rejected by the Magistrate Court, prompting her to seek relief from the Special Court for Economic Offences, which also dismissed her application. Her legal team now plans to appeal to the Sessions Court.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) opposed her bail, highlighting that Rao had traveled to Dubai four times within 15 days, raising suspicions about her activities. Upon her return on March 3, authorities intercepted her at the airport and seized 12 gold bars of foreign origin concealed on her person.
Investigations have revealed that Rao allegedly bypassed airport security protocols, possibly with assistance from state officials, raising concerns about internal collusion. A head constable deployed at the airport admitted to personally assisting Rao in evading regular security checks, stating he was instructed on multiple occasions to facilitate the movement of family members of high-ranking police officials.
The case has drawn significant attention in Karnataka's film and business circles, with enforcement agencies tightening their probe into the gold smuggling syndicate. Officials have yet to disclose further details on the extent of Rao's involvement.
Adding to the controversy, the Karnataka government recently withdrew its approval for a CID probe into allegations that police officers escorted Ranya Rao at the airport. Sources suggest that the decision was influenced by pressure from powerful circles, fearing that revelations from a police constable—who was caught escorting Rao—could expose senior officials.
The investigation continues as authorities delve deeper into the smuggling racket and potential internal collusion.
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