Kannada actress Ranya Rao has been hit with a staggering ₹102 crore penalty after being caught in a gold smuggling case. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) confirmed that the actress, along with three associates, attempted to smuggle 14.2 kg of gold from Dubai into India.
Ranya Rao was arrested on March 3, 2025, at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, where officials intercepted her carrying the smuggled gold. The seized consignment’s current market value and customs duties formed the basis of the massive fine imposed.
Three Others Arrested Alongside Ranya Rao
Apart from Ranya Rao, three other individuals were also arrested in connection with the case:
- Tarun Kondaraju (Businessman)
- Sahil Sakharia Jain (Jeweller)
- Bharat Kumar Jain (Jeweller)
Authorities allege that the trio assisted in transportation, planned the sale of the smuggled gold, and handled money transfers through hawala channels. All four accused are currently lodged at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru.
DRI Issues Notices Under COFEPOSA
The DRI Mumbai division served detailed notices under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act and the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA). Officials personally delivered the documents to the accused in prison.
A senior officer stated:
“The fine is calculated based on the gold’s current value and customs duty. It is an economic penalty, not a replacement for ongoing criminal proceedings. The trial and possible sentencing under COFEPOSA will continue as per law.”
Experts caution that a conviction under COFEPOSA could lead to long-term imprisonment along with additional monetary penalties.
