Ranya Rao Asserts Innocence, Claims to Be ‘Trapped’ in Smuggling Case
Ranya Rao, a Kannada actor, maintains her innocence in a gold smuggling case, claiming she was “trapped”. During questioning, she emotional distress revealing her struggles with mental trauma. This stance contradicts her earlier admission of being caught with 17 gold bars. The investigation is delving into possible coercion by individuals close to her, drawing parallels to similar previous incidents.
Ranya Rao, a Kannada actor, has asserted her innocence in a gold smuggling case, claiming she was “trapped.” During an interrogation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Rao reportedly became emotional but maintained her defense of innocence despite conflicting accounts regarding her involvement in smuggling operations.
According to a report by India Today, Rao expressed her distraught state of mind to her lawyers, stating, “I keep thinking why did I get into it. My mind keeps going back to the day at the airport. I cannot sleep. I am having mental trauma.” This emotional plea was made during her court appearance, highlighting her mental distress.
However, Rao’s assertion of being trapped contrasts with her earlier official statement to the DRI, wherein she acknowledged being apprehended with 17 gold bars. Her travel history includes trips to Dubai, Europe, America, and the Middle East, raising questions about her involvement and the individuals behind her alleged entrapment.
The investigation reveals parallels to a previous case in Chennai, involving an individual coerced into smuggling due to blackmail. Authorities suspect that someone within Rao’s close circle may have played a part in leading her into illegal activities, prompting the DRI to seek clarity on her claims.
Ranya Rao was apprehended at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport with gold bars valued at ₹12 crore concealed under her clothing. Following her arrest, she was remanded into DRI custody until March 10, and the agency has also conducted searches of her residence, seizing substantial amounts of cash and jewelry. Rao is the stepdaughter of an esteemed Karnataka IPS officer, K Ramachandra Rao, who has publicly distanced himself from her, indicating that he is unaware of her activities since she resides with her husband.
In conclusion, Ranya Rao’s claims of innocence in the gold smuggling case have raised significant questions regarding her involvement and the circumstances surrounding her apprehension. With a contrast between her emotional statements and her initial admissions, authorities are keen on uncovering the truth behind her alleged entrapment. The case bears similarities to prior smuggling incidents, leading to suspicions of coercion by acquaintances and prompting further investigations into her claims.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
