Vijayawada, April 24: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into the high-profile liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh, conducting significant raids on Friday. The agency targeted the residences and offices of six accused individuals simultaneously.
According to sources, ED teams have been conducting searches since early morning in Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Tirupati. Among those raided are YSR Congress leader and former MLA Chevireddy Reddy, the main accused Kesireddy Rajasekhar Reddy, and directors of Bharati Cements, Balaji Govindappa, Krishna Mohan, and Dhanunjay Reddy.
This action is based on a report from the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Previously, on March 9, the ED had interrogated four accused, including Krishna Mohan and Dhanunjay Reddy.
Reports indicate that Krishna Mohan previously served as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) during former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s tenure, while Dhanunjay Reddy held the position of secretary in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
Just three days prior, the ED had taken significant action by attaching movable and immovable assets worth approximately ₹441.63 crores. These assets are reportedly linked to Kesireddy Rajasekhar Reddy, his family, associates, and other related individuals and entities. This action was taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The ED initiated this investigation based on an FIR filed by the Andhra Pradesh CID, following a complaint from the principal secretary of the state government, alleging a loss of around ₹4,000 crores to the state treasury.
The investigation has revealed that cash bribes (kickbacks) were deposited at various locations, particularly in Hyderabad, from where they were distributed or concealed, managed by key members of a syndicate.
So far, the ED has uncovered a money trail involving approximately ₹1,048.45 crores in kickbacks. Allegations suggest that several distilleries were coerced into making payments in cash, gold, and other forms. Some distilleries were also operated under the control of this syndicate, which profited from liquor transportation.
According to the investigation agency, this illegal income was utilized for purchasing land and for personal gain. The ED also claims that a substantial amount of money related to these crimes has been concealed or relocated by the accused.
Currently, the ED’s operations are ongoing, and further significant revelations in this case are anticipated in the coming days.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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