In a shocking twist, Kannada actress Ranya Rao has been identified as the suspected mastermind of a huge gold smuggling operation involving the smuggling of more than 100 kilograms of gold. The news comes weeks after police seized 14.2 kg of gold from the actress at Bengaluru airport on March 3, an incident that was initially seen as an isolated one but has now led to the unraveling of a much bigger operation.
The investigators inform that the smuggled gold in Rao’s presumed command was trafficked through a well-constructed network via overseas couriers and compromised airport officials. Sources indicated that this case could be amongst the biggest celebrity-associated smuggling scandals in recent times in India.
Ranya Rao, one of the actresses to feature in a number of South Indian movies, is said to be undergoing intensive questioning, with officials questioning possible links to foreign handlers and financial supporters. Officials are also monitoring other suspects connected to the operation, including suspected allies in various Indian cities and abroad.
The case has rocked the entertainment industry and sparked controversy among the public about the misuse of celebrity status to indulge in illegal activities. Further arrests and revelations are to be expected in the days to come as the probe goes deeper.
