After Arrest Of Kannada Actor Ranya Rao CBI registers FIR Against Gangs Involved In Gold Smuggling
CBI Launches Crackdown on Gold Smuggling Gangs; After Arrest Of Kannada Actress Ranya Rao
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken decisive action against organized networks involved in large-scale gold smuggling operations across India. On Saturday, the agency officially registered a case against several gangs suspected of illegally bringing gold into the country through multiple airports.
Collaboration Between CBI and DRI to Combat Smuggling
According to officials, the CBI is working in close coordination with the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) to crack down on these smuggling syndicates. The two agencies are pooling resources and intelligence to track down the masterminds behind these illicit operations. News agency PTI reported that both organizations are intensifying their efforts to dismantle the smuggling rings that have been operating through Indian airports.
Ranya Rao’s Arrest Sparks Nationwide Attention
The CBI’s crackdown gained momentum following the high-profile arrest of Kannada actress Ranya Rao. She was intercepted at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport while allegedly attempting to smuggle a significant quantity of gold into India.
Ranya, who has gained popularity through her roles in Kannada films such as Maanikya and Pataki, was detained by the DRI upon her arrival from Dubai on March 3. Officials claim that she was found in possession of 17 gold bars, collectively weighing 14.8 kg. The seized gold is estimated to be worth approximately ₹12.56 crore in the Indian market.
Legal Proceedings and Investigations Intensify
After her arrest, Ranya Rao was presented before a special court that handles financial offenses on March 4. The court ordered that she be placed in judicial custody until March 18 while investigations continue. However, the judge granted her the right to meet her lawyer for 30 minutes each day. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that she receives basic amenities while in custody.
Following her arrest, two separate teams from the CBI were dispatched to key locations, including Mumbai and Bengaluru airports, to gather further intelligence regarding the smuggling network. Investigators are probing whether Ranya acted alone or was part of a larger criminal syndicate.
Concerns Over Alleged Mistreatment in Custody
In a shocking turn of events, an image of Ranya Rao with swollen eyes and visible bruises surfaced on social media, triggering widespread speculation about possible physical assault while in custody. The viral image led to an outpouring of concern among her fans and the general public.
Addressing the controversy, Karnataka State Commission for Women Chairperson Nagalakshmi Chaudhary acknowledged the circulating images but clarified that her department cannot initiate an official probe unless a formal complaint is lodged. However, she strongly condemned any potential mistreatment, emphasizing that no one has the right to take the law into their own hands.
As the investigation unfolds, the case has ignited discussions about the prevalence of gold smuggling in India, the role of high-profile individuals in such operations, and the measures needed to curb these illegal activities. The CBI and DRI remain committed to uncovering the full extent of this smuggling network and bringing all those involved to justice.
