The Karnataka government has launched an investigation into former police officer Ramachandra Rao’s possible involvement in a gold smuggling case. His stepdaughter, actor Ranya Rao, was caught smuggling gold worth ₹12.56 crore. Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta will lead the probe to determine if the DGP-rank officer played a role in the crime, according to PTI.
Ranya Rao’s Arrest at Bengaluru Airport
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested Ranya Rao at Kempegowda International Airport (KIAD) in Bengaluru on March 3. Acting on a tip-off, officials stationed a team at the airport and intercepted her. They found 14.8 kilograms of gold, allegedly smuggled from Dubai.
During a follow-up raid at her Lavelle Road apartment, authorities seized more gold. Investigators believe she used her stepfather’s influence to bypass customs checks. Reports reveal she made four trips to Dubai within 15 days, raising suspicions of her involvement in a larger smuggling network.
Court Hearing and Harassment Allegations
On March 4, Ranya Rao appeared before a special court for financial offenses. The court sent her to judicial custody until March 18. During the hearing, she accused DRI officials of verbally harassing her during interrogation. However, DRI denied the claim, stating all questioning took place in the presence of legal counsel. Officials also mentioned that CCTV footage could prove their adherence to proper procedures.
Ramachandra Rao Denies Involvement
Ramachandra Rao has distanced himself from the case, denying any connection to his stepdaughter’s activities. “I have no connection to my daughter’s activities. She got married four months ago and hasn’t been in touch with us since. The law will take its own course,” he stated.
Rao currently serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited. A 1993-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, he was promoted to the rank of Director General of Police (DGP) in September 2023.
Previous Controversies
This is not the first time Rao’s name has been linked to a controversy. In 2014, when he served as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for the Southern Range, he was accused of misconduct in a money seizure case. Police claimed to have confiscated ₹20 lakh from a private bus in Mysuru. However, merchants transporting the cash alleged that the actual amount was ₹2.27 crore and accused the police of misappropriation.
Investigation Underway
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are examining whether Rao misused his position to aid the smuggling operation. The probe will also look into whether Ranya Rao exploited her connections to bypass security protocols. The Karnataka government has assured a fair and thorough investigation to determine the extent of any official involvement in the case.