Bengaluru: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has expanded its probe in the Ranya Rao gold smuggling case and sought an extension of her custody by three more days. The actor, on the other hand, has applied for bail. A court in Bengaluru will hear her bail plea at Friday noon.
Till then, it is unclear whether there is any relief for the actor. However, several media reports indicate that the actor has confessed to the crime during her interrogation by the DRI. Reports have also indicated at startling revelations about the actor and her frequent international trips, which were not just restricted to Dubai but also included visits to Europe and America. The actor has visited at least 40 countries in the recent months and had made 27 visits to Dubai in barely a few months, the Times Now reported.
“I have travelled to several countries….want to rest”
According to Ranya’s first official statement given to the DRI, she admitted that the authorities recovered 17 gold bars from her possession, reported India Today. However, the Kannada actor has not shared further details. Instead, she sought time to “take some rest”.
In the statement recorded during questioning, Rao reportedly said, “I accept that 17 pieces of gold bars were recovered from my possession. I would request you to keep the proceedings as private as possible”. The Kannada actor also reportedly admitted that she had travelled to several countries. “I have travelled to Europe, America and Middle East and have visited Dubai, Saudi Arabia. I wish to state that I am tired at present as I did not get enough rest,” she said, as quoted by India Today.
“…shall appear before you…”
“I have nothing more to state. I once again reiterate that I will co-operate in the ongoing investigation, and I shall appear before you as and when called for. During the recording of this statement no religious sentiments were hurt. I have been offered food and beverages from time to time, but I chose not to eat as I am not hungry and was drinking water. This statement of mine is given voluntarily without any force, threat, coercion or inducement and in my normal state of mind. The contents of this statement are read over, and the contents are as deposed by me,” the actor has told the agency, as reported by India Today.
The Kannada actor was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) for allegedly smuggling 14.8 kg of gold worth over Rs 12 crore from Dubai. Ranya, also the step daughter of Karnataka DGP-rank IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, was intercepted by DRI officials after she arrived in Bengaluru on an Emirates flight from Dubai on Sunday evening.
