SIT Arrests Former AP CM's Secretary and OSD in Liquor Scam Case

A significant development occurred today in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam investigation. After extensive interrogation, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested Dhanunjay Reddy, who served as the then Chief Minister's Secretary, and Krishnamohan Reddy, who was the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister at the time.

The SIT disclosed that both individuals were taken into custody this evening following three days of questioning and the emergence of clear evidence of their involvement in the liquor scam. According to sources, the SIT interrogated them for approximately nine hours today.

In the ongoing case, Dhanunjay Reddy is listed as Accused No. 31 (A31), and Krishnamohan Reddy as Accused No. 32 (A32). Notably, the Supreme Court recently dismissed their anticipatory bail petitions. The bench led by Justice Parthiwala ruled that sufficient evidence exists against the petitioners and that the investigation is at a critical juncture, making it inappropriate to grant anticipatory bail at this stage. The court stated that granting bail at this point would hinder the investigative process.

Previously, the Andhra Pradesh High Court had also rejected their anticipatory bail requests, following which they approached the Supreme Court. While denying anticipatory bail, the apex court advised the petitioners that they could seek regular bail from the High Court or Trial Court based on legal provisions and the merits of the case.

In connection with this multi-thousand crore rupees liquor scam, the SIT had earlier included Govindappa Balaji, a full-time director at Bharathi Cements, in the list of accused. Govindappa Balaji, who is listed as Accused No. 33 (A33), was arrested by the SIT on Tuesday.

Although the Supreme Court had earlier ordered that no coercive action be taken until May 16, it had clearly directed the accused to appear for investigation. Consequently, the SIT conducted interrogations over the past three days at its Vijayawada office. Following the rejection of anticipatory bail by the Supreme Court, the arrests of Dhanunjay Reddy and Krishnamohan Reddy were facilitated.