Ranya Rao insists on her innocence in the gold smuggling case, claiming to have been ‘trapped’ during her interrogation by the DRI. She expressed emotional distress and has previously admitted to possessing gold bars. Investigators are probing her claims of manipulation by associates. Her arrest has prompted broader investigations into potentially larger criminal networks.
Ranya Rao, a Kannada actress, has publicly asserted her innocence concerning her recent arrest tied to a gold smuggling scandal. During interrogation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Rao reportedly expressed anguish, maintaining that she was ‘trapped’ and not a willing participant in the alleged illegal activity.
According to reports, Rao broke down during questioning, emphasizing her emotional turmoil related to the incident. She conveyed to her legal representatives that her mind relentlessly revisits the events at the airport and the overwhelming mental distress has inhibited her ability to sleep.
Contradicting her recent claims, Rao had previously confessed to the DRI about possessing 17 gold bars and revealed extensive travel to various locations, including Dubai and Europe. Authorities are pressing her to disclose who may have led her into this situation, seeking clarity regarding her predicament in the smuggling operation.
The unfolding case shares similarities with a previous incident involving a woman from Kerala, who was implicated in gold smuggling under the duress of blackmailing friends. Investigators suspect that someone in Rao’s inner circle may have coerced her into engaging in smuggling activities.
Ranya Rao was detained at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport for attempting to smuggle gold valued at ₹12 crore, concealed in a hidden belt. Following her arrest, authorities executed a search warrant at her residence, confiscating a considerable amount of cash and jewelry. Notably, she is the stepdaughter of senior Karnataka IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, who has publicly distanced himself from her circumstances, stating unawareness of her recent actions, as she resides with her spouse.
Additionally, the CBI has initiated an investigation against international drug traffickers linked to this case, indicating the broader implications of the incident.
Ranya Rao has firmly declared her innocence in a gold smuggling case, claiming she was misled. Despite earlier admissions to the DRI regarding her possession of gold bars, she attributes her predicament to someone else’s manipulation. As authorities continue their investigation, the case highlights serious issues surrounding illicit activities and possible exploitation within personal relationships. The involvement of the CBI adds further scrutiny to the situation, emphasizing the complexity of the allegations against her.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
