The Karnataka government has initiated a formal investigation into an alleged protocol violation at the Kempegowda International Airport following the arrest of Kannada actor Ranya Rao in a high-profile gold smuggling case.
The inquiry aims to uncover security lapses that may have facilitated her movement and potential breaches in airport protocols.
Government Orders Inquiry into IPS Officer Ramachandra Rao’s Role
A key aspect of the probe is the alleged involvement of Ranya Rao’s stepfather, IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, in enabling her to bypass standard airport security procedures. The senior officer, who currently serves as the chairman and managing director of Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, is now under scrutiny.
Authorities suspect that his influence may have played a role in Ranya Rao’s ability to evade stringent security checks at Bengaluru airport. The state government has tasked investigative agencies with determining whether any police personnel were involved in facilitating her illegal activities.
Separate Investigations to Examine Security Lapses
To ensure a thorough examination, two separate investigations have been ordered. One will focus on identifying security loopholes at the airport that may have allowed Ranya Rao to smuggle gold multiple times undetected. The second will scrutinize the potential involvement of law enforcement personnel in the operation, including any misuse of official influence.
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The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has been assigned to look into the possible role of police officials in aiding or overlooking Ranya Rao’s repeated gold smuggling trips. Investigators will analyze surveillance footage, airport clearance records, and communication logs to determine whether any officials were complicit in the crime.
Ranya Rao’s Arrest and Previous Developments
Ranya Rao was arrested on March 3 by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials while attempting to smuggle 14.8 kg of gold from Dubai. Her arrest was part of an ongoing crackdown on a smuggling network, which also led to the detention of Tarun Raju, the grandson of the owner of Atria Hotel.
Investigators suspect that Ranya Rao had been smuggling gold from Dubai for months, making nearly 30 trips in the past year. Following her arrest, DRI officials conducted raids at her residence, seizing gold jewellery worth Rs 2.06 crore and Indian currency amounting to Rs 2.67 crore.
The case has also been marred by controversy, with Ranya Rao alleging verbal abuse and coercion by investigating officials. She claimed she was pressured into signing documents against her will, further complicating legal proceedings.
State Government’s Stance on Airport Security
The Karnataka government has emphasized the need to strengthen airport security measures in the wake of this incident. Officials have vowed to take strict action against anyone found guilty of breaching protocol, whether through negligence or intentional misconduct.
A senior government official stated, “The investigation will be comprehensive. Any police official or authority involved in facilitating or ignoring security breaches will face strict action.”
As the probe continues, authorities are expected to question multiple officials, analyze travel patterns, and reassess security protocols at Kempegowda International Airport to prevent future lapses. With a growing focus on organized gold smuggling networks, law enforcement agencies remain on high alert for similar criminal activities.
