Kannada actress Ranya Rao allegedly lost ₹2 crore in a failed attempt to source gold from Africa before running a large smuggling network via Dubai, officials revealed.
Failed Africa Deal
Investigators said Rao and her associate Tarun Konduru Raju tried to procure gold through a Ugandan agent who promised direct supply. The duo paid large sums, but the consignment never arrived, exposing a scam.
Shift to Dubai Route
After failed attempts in Uganda and Kenya, they shifted strategy and began sourcing gold from Dubai for smuggling into India. Authorities later tracked multiple trips linked to the operation.
Arrest Operation
Rao was arrested in March 2025 at Kempegowda International Airport with over 14 kg of gold. Probe agencies say the network smuggled more than 127 kg of gold worth over ₹100 crore.