India’s top anti-smuggling agency has revealed fresh details about its investigation into the alleged gold smuggling case involving Kannada actor Ranya Rao. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) provided evidence during a court proceeding that Ranya Rao and her friend, Tarun Raju, made 26 trips to Dubai, where they allegedly smuggled gold.
Suspicious Travel Patterns
During these trips, Ranya Rao and Raju left in the morning and returned by the evening. This pattern raised suspicion among authorities. The DRI opposed a bail plea filed by Tarun Raju, emphasizing the need for continued investigation. Raju’s arrest followed shortly after Ranya Rao’s shocking capture at the Bengaluru airport, where the DRI caught her smuggling gold red-handed.
Financial Links and Evidence
Investigators uncovered more financial connections between Ranya Rao and Tarun Raju. They reported to the court that Raju flew from Dubai to Hyderabad on a ticket booked by Rao, using funds she transferred to his account. This evidence strengthens claims that he was part of the gold smuggling network linked to Ranya Rao.
Frequency of Dubai Trips
Ranya Rao made 52 trips to Dubai between 2023 and March 2025, with Raju accompanying her on at least 26 of these journeys. Authorities suspect that these frequent, same-day return journeys were designed to facilitate gold smuggling into India.
Attempted Escape and Legal Proceedings
As the investigation progressed, authorities issued a Lookout Circular against Raju. On March 8, he allegedly tried to flee the country. When that plan failed, he traveled from Hyderabad to Bengaluru instead. Officials have submitted all necessary documents to support his arrest, including legal grounds.
International Implications
Authorities informed Raju’s sister about his arrest, revealing that he holds United States citizenship. This raises further questions about his international movements and business dealings, particularly regarding his trips to Dubai. Officials doubt Raju’s claim that he was heading to Geneva, especially given his detour to Bengaluru.
Ongoing Investigation
The DRI continues to investigate Raju’s financial dealings in Dubai. They have found payments linked to gold purchases and are probing possible international connections to the smuggling network. The DRI maintains that these findings justify keeping him in custody as the case unfolds.
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