Kannada Actor Ranya Rao Named In ED Chargesheet In PMLA Case Linked To Alleged Gold Smuggling


Ranya Rao Named In ED Chargesheet: Kannada actor Ranya Rao has been named in a prosecution complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged gold smuggling and money laundering case. According to a report published by The Times of India on February 26, the chargesheet was submitted before a special court on Wednesday under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Bengaluru.

Apart from Ranya Rao, the federal agency has also named Tarun Konduru, described as her alleged associate, and Sahil Sakariya Jain, a gold dealer based in Ballari, in the complaint. The filing of the chargesheet marks a significant step in the agency’s investigation into the alleged illegal import and circulation of gold in the domestic market.

From Airport Seizure To Alleged Organised Smuggling And Hawala Operations

Ranya Rao, whose full name is Harshavardini Ranya, was earlier arrested by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on March 3, 2025, at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. She had arrived from Dubai when officials intercepted her. Authorities reportedly seized 14.2 kilograms of gold bars from her possession, valued at approximately Rs 12.56 crore at the time.

As per the details cited by The Times of India, the ED’s investigation suggests that a larger network was involved in smuggling operations over a one-year period between March 2024 and March 2025. The agency has alleged that 127.28 kilograms of gold, worth over Rs 102 crore, was brought into India through illegal channels during this period. The smuggled gold was allegedly sold in the domestic market through intermediaries and jewellers.

The agency further claimed that proceeds from these transactions were largely generated in cash and subsequently transferred using informal “hawala” channels both within India and overseas. According to investigators, the funds were then layered and routed through multiple bank accounts and business entities to present them as legitimate financial transactions.

In its findings, the ED is reported to have described the alleged operations as “organised” and “structured,” involving procurement of gold abroad, illegal entry into India, and systematic disposal within the country followed by laundering of proceeds. The agency has also stated that such activities can impact lawful trade and regulatory systems governing cross-border financial transactions.

During the course of the probe, assets worth approximately Rs 34 crore belonging to Rao were attached, the report added.

The case will now proceed before the special PMLA court in Bengaluru, where further hearings are expected in the coming weeks.


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