In a significant breakthrough, Karnataka police have confiscated a record-breaking consignment of MDMA valued at approximately Rs.75 crore. This marks the state’s largest-ever drug seizure, showcasing law enforcement’s commitment to curbing illegal narcotics activities.

Details of the Seizure

During a well-coordinated operation, authorities intercepted the massive drug shipment in Karnataka’s coastal region. The contraband, identified as MDMA (commonly known as Ecstasy), was reportedly being smuggled into the state for distribution across major cities.

Investigation and Arrests

The police confirmed that multiple suspects have been arrested in connection with the bust. Investigators are working to uncover the broader network involved in the smuggling operation. Preliminary findings indicate that the seized drugs were intended to fuel illicit party scenes and underground markets.

Law Enforcement’s Vigilance

Authorities emphasized that this successful operation reflects their proactive approach to combat the rising threat of synthetic drug abuse. The police have intensified surveillance efforts in key regions identified as high-risk zones for drug trafficking.

Public Awareness and Safety

Officials urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Awareness campaigns are being planned to educate youth about the dangers of MDMA consumption and its harmful effects on mental and physical health.

Future Measures

Karnataka’s police department is strengthening collaborations with national and international agencies to prevent drug smuggling at its roots. This record seizure serves as a stern warning to organized crime groups involved in illicit activities.

This remarkable achievement highlights Karnataka’s unwavering stance in tackling drug abuse and ensuring public safety across the state.

Bengaluru, Karnataka — In a significant development, Karnataka’s Director General of Police (DGP) for the Police Housing Corporation, K Ramachandra Rao, has been mandated to take compulsory leave following the arrest of his daughter, Sandalwood actress Ranya Rao, in a gold smuggling case.

Background of the Incident

On March 3, 2025, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) apprehended Ranya Rao at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru. She was allegedly attempting to smuggle 14.2 kilograms of gold into the country from Dubai. Notably, a police constable assigned to protocol duties for IPS officers was reportedly escorting her during this incident. The constable claimed he was instructed to receive Ranya upon her arrivals and was unaware of any illicit activities.

Implications for DGP Ramachandra Rao

Prior to this controversy, DGP Ramachandra Rao was a leading candidate for the position of Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG-IGP), the highest rank in the state police hierarchy. However, the unfolding scandal has cast a shadow over his prospects. The state government’s decision to place him on compulsory leave aims to prevent potential embarrassment, especially as central agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) intensify their probes into the matter, citing national security concerns.

Ranya Rao’s Response

From Bengaluru Central Prison, Ranya Rao addressed a five-page letter dated March 6 to the DRI’s Additional Director-General. In her correspondence, she denied her father’s involvement in the smuggling operation and asserted her own innocence, claiming she was falsely implicated. Ranya also alleged mistreatment during her apprehension, stating she was physically assaulted by officials.

Ongoing Investigations

The case has attracted the attention of multiple central investigative agencies, including the CBI and ED, due to its potential implications on national security. These agencies are delving deeper into the smuggling network and examining any possible connections within the state’s administrative framework.

The Karnataka government has rescinded its previous directive for the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to investigate potential lapses by police officers at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport concerning the gold smuggling case involving actress Ranya Rao.

Initially, the CID was tasked with examining any negligence or misconduct by airport police following Ranya Rao’s arrest on charges of attempting to smuggle gold. However, a subsequent order issued on Wednesday annulled this investigation. The government cited an ongoing probe led by Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta, focusing on the involvement of Ranya’s stepfather, K Ramachandra Rao—a Director General of Police (DGP) rank officer currently serving as the Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation.

Gupta’s inquiry aims to uncover the facts and circumstances surrounding the misuse of protocol-related facilities and assess Rao’s potential role in the case. This development follows the seizure of gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore from Ranya Rao at the airport. Subsequent searches of her residence led to the discovery of gold jewelry valued at ₹2.06 crore and ₹2.67 crore in cash.

The government’s decision to withdraw the CID probe underscores its commitment to a focused and impartial investigation into the high-profile gold smuggling case, ensuring that all aspects are thoroughly examined without redundancy.