Star Hotel Owner Arrested In Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case

Star hotel owner Tarun Raj has been arrested for allegedly buying smuggled gold from actress Ranya Rao. The case gained attention when Ranya broke down in court, claiming innocence. Her bail verdict is expected today.

The controversy began on March 3rd when Ranya returned to Bengaluru from Dubai. Based on a tip-off, IT officials searched her and found 14.8 kg of smuggled gold.

Reports suggest she wore special clothing to hide the gold and used her alleged ADGP father’s name to avoid checks. After security clearance, she would hand over the gold to an accomplice.

During questioning, Ranya claimed she was forced to confess, but officials denied this, offering CCTV footage as proof. She was remanded for 15 days.

Investigators later found her contacts included politicians and hotelier Tarun Raj, who had received smuggled gold multiple times. His unclear answers led to his arrest, and the probe into the smuggling ring continues.

How Did Ranya Rao Dodge Airport Security? Karnataka To Probe IPS Father’s Role In Gold Smuggling Case. Ranya Rao’s Associate Nabbed In Second Arrest, Who Is Tarun Raju?@harishupadhya shares all the details#GoldSmugglingCase #RanyaRao #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/B8RueKaRV3

— News18 (@CNNnews18) March 11, 2025