Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International

 Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold, valued at approximately ₹12.56 crore. Her modus operandi involved wearing the same jacket and belt during multiple trips and utilizing police escorts to bypass security checks. 

                           

Frequent Travels and Surveillance

Authorities became suspicious due to Rao's frequent trips to Dubai—four visits in the past 15 days and ten since the beginning of the year. This unusual travel pattern prompted the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) to place her under surveillance. 

Concealment Tactics

Upon her arrival from Dubai, DRI officials intercepted Rao and discovered 14 gold bars concealed in a belt she was wearing. Investigations revealed that in her recent trips, she consistently wore similar attire, including the same belt, to facilitate smuggling. 

Exploiting Protocol Loopholes

Rao allegedly exploited protocol services intended for senior bureaucrats to evade standard security procedures. A protocol officer would meet her upon arrival and escort her out, ensuring she wasn't subjected to physical screening. She would then be picked up in a government vehicle, avoiding scrutiny. 

Family Connections and Official Response

Ranya Rao is the stepdaughter of K. Ramachandra Rao, the Director-General of Police (Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation). He has distanced himself from her activities, stating that she married four months ago and has not been in contact since. Expressing shock and disappointment, he affirmed that the law should take its course if she is found guilty. 

Ongoing Investigation

The DRI is reviewing CCTV footage from Rao's previous arrivals to determine if she had smuggled gold on earlier occasions using the same methods. Authorities are also investigating whether she acted alone or was part of a larger smuggling network. 

This incident has raised concerns about the misuse of official protocols and the involvement of individuals with influential backgrounds in illegal activities. The investigation is ongoing, with further developments awaited.