Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested after officials seized gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore from her at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport.
Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested by authorities on Monday after being caught with gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) subsequently searched her residence, recovering additional assets, bringing the total value of seized items to ₹17.29 crore. This major bust has drawn significant attention, particularly to Rao’s husband, Jatin Hukkeri.
Jatin Hukkeri, an architect by profession, has been thrust into the spotlight following his wife’s arrest. The couple got married in a lavish ceremony at Bengaluru’s Taj West End hotel a few months ago, drawing considerable media coverage. Rao’s recent frequent trips—four visits to Dubai within a span of just two weeks—raised red flags for the investigating authorities.
Jatin Hukkeri completed his Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) specializing in Architecture & Interior Design from the prestigious RV College of Engineering in Bengaluru. He is currently the Founder and Creative Director at WDA & DECODE LLC and heads another venture named Craft CoDe.
His LinkedIn profile portrays him as an accomplished professional in hospitality architecture and planning, highlighting a track record of creating standout architectural interiors and custom-designed spaces. His professional expertise encompasses design and planning of hospitality projects, with his portfolio boasting notable establishments across Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai.
Among his high-profile projects are Bengaluru’s Hangover bar, known for its distinctive open design that enhances customer experience, as well as Bangalore XOOX, Brewmill, and Olive Beach. In Delhi and Mumbai, he has also contributed to acclaimed establishments like Monkey Bar and Gateway Taproom.
Hukkeri’s LinkedIn profile states: “Experienced Architectural Designer with a demonstrated history of working in the Hospitality Architecture & planning industry. Skilled in Architectural Interiors, Custom Interiors, Recreation, Design, and Hospitality sector planning.”
Authorities began investigating Rao due to her suspicious travel patterns, notably her four visits to Dubai within a mere 15 days. Her arrest at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport followed the recovery of gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore. According to reports, her husband, Jatin Hukkeri, is now also under scrutiny, with investigators examining whether he had any role or knowledge regarding the alleged smuggling activities.
As authorities delve deeper into the case, both Rao and Hukkeri find themselves at the centre of significant media and legal attention. Further investigations are ongoing to unravel more details about their alleged involvement and potential broader links within organized gold smuggling networks.
Note: With inputs from agencies
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