Bengaluru/IBNS: The Karnataka government has launched a probe into the alleged misuse of VIP airport protocol privileges by arrested Kannada actress Ranya Rao, who is accused of gold smuggling, media reports said.

Ranya, who is the step-daughter of senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, allegedly used VIP airport privileges, which are usually enjoyed by senior officials, bypassing security checks.

The police are also probing Ramachandra Rao's potential role in the smuggling case.

It would probe under which circumstances Ranya was handed over the privileges which are meant for officials.

Ranya was arrested on March 3 at the Bengaluru International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold worth Rs. 12.86 crore.

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) apprehended Ranya Rao after she arrived from Dubai on an Emirates flight and was immediately taken into custody.

Ranya, whose 14-day judicial custody expired on March 10, was on Monday remanded to DRI custody for another two weeks till March 24.

Ranya said in a confession that she was caught at the airport with 17 gold bars.

Reports claim Ranya travelled to Dubai 27 times in the last year bringing her under the scanner of DRI.

According to DRI sources, Rao had been under watch due to her frequent overseas trips, the report said.

Ranya Rao's personal equation with IPS officer Ramachandra Rao

Ranya is one of Ramachandra Rao's second wife's two daughters from her previous marriage.

Distancing himself from the entire case, Ramachandra Rao said, "The law will do its job. There is no black mark on my career."

"Like any other father, I was shocked and devastated when it came to my notice through the media. I was not aware of any of these things. I don't want to say anything more," he said.

"She is not living with us... she is living separately with her husband. There must be some problem between them... (maybe) due to some family issues," the IPS officer said.