Sat Mar 15 10:00:44 UTC 2025: ## Actress Alleges Torture, False Implication in High-Profile Gold Smuggling Case
**Bengaluru, India** – Actress Ranya Rao, arrested in a major gold smuggling case, has accused authorities of custodial torture and falsely implicating her. In a letter from Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, Rao alleges she was arrested inside an aircraft at Kempegowda International Airport on March 3rd, contradicting official statements that she was apprehended at the terminal. The DRI arrested her for allegedly smuggling over 14 kg of gold from Dubai.
Rao claims she was physically assaulted, deprived of food and sleep, and coerced into signing blank documents. She further alleges that threats were made to expose her father’s identity and that she is being framed to protect more influential individuals involved in the smuggling operation. Her allegations come a day after a special court denied her bail application.
The court, in its decision, noted Rao’s frequent travel to Dubai (27 times since January 2025) and the significant amount of gold involved, estimating the evaded customs duties and penalties at ₹4.83 crore (approximately $585,000 USD). The court cited evidence suggesting Rao concealed gold in various locations on her person.
The Karnataka government has ordered an investigation into the alleged involvement of Rao’s stepfather, Karnataka’s Director General of Police K Ramachandra Rao, and possible police misconduct. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have also joined the probe. The case has sparked significant political attention.
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