Media365
Ranya Rao, arrested for smuggling 14.8 kg gold from Dubai, during her interrogation admitted carrying 17 gold bars on her recent return to India. However, she has requested the officials to keep the matter as confidential as possible, per her statement. When officials asked her about the international trip, to this, the Kannada actress mentioned that she has travelled to 40 countries, including Europe, America and the Middle East. She also opened up about her family and stated that she is the daughter of K.S. Hegdesh, a businessman.
During the interrogation, Ranya was questioned about the gold confiscated from her at Kempegowda International Airport. She acknowledged and confirmed that she was present during the seizure and signed the official record of the event. She also requested that the matter be kept as confidential as possible.
When asked about her travelling history she said, “I have travelled to Europe, America, and (the) 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.”
Ranya stated that she was born and brought up in Bengaluru and is the daughter of businessman K.S. Hegdesh. She completed her schooling and is an actress in the film industry. Additionally, she is a wildlife photographer and works in real estate in Dubai. The actress also shared that she is married to Jatin Hukkeri and their residence is on Lavelle Road, Bengaluru.
Towards the end, when officials asked if she had anything else to disclose, Ranya responded that she had nothing further to add. She assured full cooperation with the investigation and agreed to appear before the authorities whenever required.
This statement has reportedly been submitted to the court. For the unversed, Ramachandra Rao, the Director-General of Police of the Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation, is her stepfather.
Amid this, Ranya’s photo in custody has been accessed by Republic. The image shows dark patches under Rao’s eyes. Ranya has been remanded for custody till March 18. Soon after the arrest, Rao petitioned for a bail, which was heard on Thursday. The Economic Offences Court reserved its order for Friday. During the hearing, the advocate for DRI argued that they needed further custody of the actress to investigate how she violated the protocols and if she is linked to any gold smuggling gang.
