In a significant development, Kannada actress Ranya Rao is set to be released from Bengaluru Central Prison after completing a year under preventive detention in a high-profile gold smuggling case. Rao, arrested in connection with an alleged gold smuggling racket worth Rs 102 crore, had her release delayed due to the COFEPOSA Act. Despite securing bail earlier, the Act allowed authorities to keep her in detention.
With the completion of one year under COFEPOSA detention, Rao is now eligible for release, expected later in the evening. The case, which drew attention for her ties to the Kannada film industry and police department, remains under investigation, with further legal proceedings anticipated. The Central Economic Intelligence Bureau invoked the COFEPOSA Act against Rao and other accused based on the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence’s recommendation.
Ranya Rao, stepdaughter of senior IPS officer Ramchandra Rao, was arrested in 2025 for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold valued at over Rs 12.56 crore. The investigation involves multiple agencies, including the DRI, ED, and CBI. The state government formed a special team to probe DGP Ramachandra Rao’s role in the case, leading to his suspension.
The actress, along with other accused Tarun Raju and Sahil Sakaria Jain, faced charges under the COFEPOSA Act. Investigations revealed Rao’s involvement in hawala transactions with Jain, assisting in disposing of gold and transferring hawala money to Dubai. The DRI’s remand application alleged a hawala nexus between the jeweler and Ranya Rao, indicating significant financial transactions.
