Introduction
Kannada actress Ranya Rao is at the centre of an ongoing investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). She was arrested with over 14 kg of gold at the Bengaluru airport, leading to the detection of a possible gold smuggling racket. With a web of suspicious financial transactions and business deals, officials are unraveling the depths of the case.
Frequent Dubai trips raise suspicion
Unusual travel pattern
Investigators found that Rao had made 52 trips to Dubai between 2023 and 2025, of which 45 were one-day round trips. In early 2025 alone, she travelled to Dubai 27 times, frequently using airports in Bengaluru, Goa and Mumbai. These short trips reveal a systematic smuggling operation.
Collaboration with Tarun Raju
Court evidence revealed that Ranya Rao and his associate Tarun Raju travelled to Dubai 26 times, usually leaving in the morning and returning the same evening. This repeated pattern rang alarm bells for investigators.
Business ventures under scrutiny
Veera Diamond Trading – a cover for illegal activities?
In 2023, Rao set up Veera Diamond Trading in Dubai. Authorities suspect that this business was a cover to launder the proceeds of smuggling.
Bio Enho India – rebranded as Zerodha India
Rao also set up Bio Enho India in Bengaluru in 2022, which was later renamed Zerodha India. Investigators believe that these companies were used to launder illegal money.
Financial investigation and hawala links
The officials are probing his banking transactions, money flow and financial records to unearth possible links to a larger smuggling network. The ED and DRI believe that hawala transactions were a major mechanism to move money across borders.
Key Man: Tarun Raju’s Role in Smuggling
Who is Tarun Raju?
Businessman and actor Tarun Raju (alias Virat Konduru) is the main focus in this investigation. Officials allege that he helped procure gold in Dubai and handled illegal money transfers.
Judicial custody and bail plea
Raju was arrested and made the second accused in the case. He is currently in judicial custody for 15 days. While his legal team argues that there are no independent charges against him, the DRI has opposed bail citing his frequent travel history.
Family members under investigation
Stepfather: Ramachandra Rao’s possible involvement
Ranya Rao’s stepfather, Ramachandra Rao, is a senior DGP-rank officer. Officials are investigating whether he helped her in her smuggling activities. He has been put on compulsory leave since March 15.
Husband: Jatin Hukkeri seeks legal protection
Her husband, Jatin Hukkeri, has also been questioned. He has sought protection from arrest, saying they have been living separately since December 2024.
Legal developments and future course of action
The probe is underway under the supervision of IAS Gaurav Gupta. The report is expected to be submitted to the government by March 19.
Bail status
Ranya Rao’s bail plea has been rejected twice – first by the trial court and then by the special court for economic offences. She has now moved the sessions court, which will hear the case on March 19.
Conclusion
The ED and DRI continue to conduct an intensive investigation into the gold smuggling syndicate linked to Ranya Rao. As the investigation progresses, more revelations about illegal financial transactions and smuggling operations are expected. With high-profile names involved, the case could have far-reaching consequences.