Bengaluru Actress Fined ₹271 Crore in Major Gold Smuggling Case

In a significant development, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has imposed a hefty fine of ₹271 crore on Kannada actress Ranya Rao and three other individuals involved in a large-scale gold smuggling operation. The case has garnered national attention due to its scale and the involvement of a public figure.

Details of the Smuggling Operation

The DRI’s investigation revealed that the accused were part of a syndicate smuggling gold from Dubai into India. Ranya Rao, who had made multiple trips to Dubai, was apprehended at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on March 3, 2025, with 14.2 kg of gold concealed on her person. Subsequent raids led to the seizure of additional gold and cash, amounting to over ₹17 crore in value.

Penalties Imposed

Following the investigation, the DRI issued show-cause notices to the accused, imposing substantial fines:India Today+1

• Ranya Rao: ₹102.55 crore
• Tarun Kondaraju (Hotelier): ₹63 crore
• Sahil Sakaria Jain and Bharat Kumar Jain (Jewellers): ₹53 crore each

The total penalty amounts to ₹271 crore, underscoring the seriousness of the offence.

Legal Actions and Future Implications

The DRI has warned that failure to pay the imposed fines could lead to the attachment of properties linked to the accused. Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), leading to the attachment of assets worth ₹34 crore associated with Ranya Rao.

This case highlights the increasing vigilance of Indian authorities in curbing gold smuggling and related financial crimes. The involvement of a film industry personality has brought additional scrutiny to the issue.

Conclusion

The gold smuggling case involving Ranya Rao serves as a stern reminder of the stringent measures being adopted by Indian authorities to combat illicit trade and financial misconduct. The substantial penalties and asset attachments reflect the government’s commitment to enforcing economic laws and deterring similar offences in the future.