DRI imposes Rs 270 crore fine on Ranya Rao, other accused in gold smuggling case

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has issued show-cause notices to actor Ranya Rao and three others in the high-profile gold smuggling case, imposing penalties running into hundreds of crores.

On March 3, the agency seized 127.3 kg of smuggled gold and arrested Ranya. Following adjudication, the DRI has now directed the actor to pay a penalty of Rs 102.55 crore.

Notices were served inside the jail today, with officials warning that properties of the accused could be attached if the dues are not cleared.

The case involves multiple accused. Tarun Konduru Raju has been found guilty of smuggling 72.6 kg of gold and faces a Rs 62 crore penalty. Sahil Jain and Bharat Jain, both held responsible for smuggling 63.61 kg each, have been ordered to pay Rs 53 crore each.

The DRI has backed its show-cause notices with over 2,500 pages of documents and initiated proceedings under various sections of the Customs Act. Officials indicated that prosecution will follow soon.

Meanwhile, the COFEPOSA (Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act) petition linked to the case was heard in the High Court today and adjourned to September 11. The DRI has said investigations are being fast-tracked to ensure recovery.

- Ends