Ranya Rao Learned Gold Smuggling Techniques From Youtube, Claims First Attempt

Bengaluru, 13th March 2025: Kannada actress Ranya Rao, recently arrested for smuggling gold worth ₹12.56 crore from Dubai, has made a startling confession to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). The 29-year-old actor claimed this was her first attempt at smuggling and that she learned the techniques for concealing gold from YouTube videos.

Rao was apprehended on March 3 at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport with 14.2 kg of gold hidden on her person. Despite initially declaring no dutiable goods, a metal detector alerted customs officials to the presence of concealed items. A thorough search revealed gold bars wrapped around her waist and calves, as well as hidden in her shoes and pockets.

The actress, who made her debut in the 2014 Kannada movie ‘Maanikya’, detailed her meticulous plan to smuggle gold bars from Dubai. According to DRI documents, Rao received instructions via an internet call to collect the gold from Gate A of Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. She met an unidentified man in a white gown at the airport dining lounge, who handed her two packets containing gold wrapped in thick tarpaulin-like material.

Following her arrest, a search of Rao’s residence on Lavelle Road in Bengaluru uncovered additional gold jewelry worth ₹2.06 crore and Indian currency amounting to ₹2.67 crore. The total value of seized items exceeds ₹17 crore.

The case has raised questions about potential misuse of airport protocols. The Special Public Prosecutor highlighted that Rao bypassed security measures by exploiting protocols intended for senior officials. This has led to an internal investigation ordered by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah into the alleged misuse of protocol rules.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dismissed speculations about a possible nexus between Rao and some ministers, calling it “just a rumour and the game plan of the BJP”.

The Special Court for Economic Offences has reserved its decision on Rao’s bail plea until Friday. If convicted, she faces serious charges under the Customs Act, with the offense classified as cognizable and non-bailable due to the high value of smuggled goods and attempted duty evasion.

As the investigation continues, this case has shed light on the sophisticated methods employed by gold smuggling networks and the potential exploitation of airport security protocols.