- By Imran Zafar
- Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:58 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Kannada actor Ranya Rao, arrested in connection with a gold smuggling case, made at least 26 round trips to Dubai along with actor friend Tarun Raj Konduru, during which they allegedly smuggled gold, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials informed the court on Tuesday. The investigation revealed a pattern of same-day return trips that raised suspicions.
During the court proceedings, the DRI presented evidence that Ranya Rao and Tarun Raj Konduru's frequent travel pattern was linked to smuggling activities, India Today reported. The agency opposed Tarun's bail plea, citing his direct involvement in the case. Tarun was arrested shortly after Ranya's dramatic capture at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, where she was caught smuggling gold.
Investigators have uncovered financial transactions linking Ranya and Tarun. According to the DRI, Tarun flew from Dubai to Hyderabad on a ticket purchased by Ranya, using money she transferred to his account. Officials claim they have substantial evidence proving his role in the smuggling network, the India Today report added.
Authorities disclosed that Ranya Rao made 52 trips to Dubai between 2023 and March 2025, with Tarun accompanying her on at least 26 occasions. Officials suspect these frequent, short-duration trips were used to smuggle gold into India.
As investigations progressed, a Lookout Circular was issued against Raj. Despite this, he allegedly attempted to flee the country on March 8. When unsuccessful, he instead travelled from Hyderabad to Bengaluru. The DRI has submitted all necessary documents justifying his arrest.
The court has adjourned Ranya Rao's bail plea hearing to March 19. The CCH 64th Session Court directed the DRI’s counsel to file its objections before the next hearing. Previously, her bail plea was rejected by the Special Court for Economic Offenses due to the seriousness of the allegations.