ED, ACB Step Up Probe in Andhra Liquor Scam Ahead of Key Hearings
In a significant development in the high-profile liquor scam case in Andhra Pradesh, the Supreme Court on Friday dismissed the anticipatory bail petitions filed by Dhanunjaya Reddy and Krishnamohan Reddy, paving the way for their arrest. The apex court reportedly observed that any intervention at this stage could hinder the ongoing investigation. Following the verdict, police are preparing to arrest both individuals. For the past three days, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been interrogating them separately and jointly. Allegations suggest that both figures played influential roles in the Chief Minister’s Office during the previous government, making their impending arrests a subject of heightened political attention.
Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court has granted permission to record the statement of Raj Kasireddy, considered a key figure in the same case. The court directed Raj Kasireddy to file a counter in connection with this order and postponed the next hearing to May 19. Authorities are proceeding based on the information allegedly provided by Raj Kasireddy, who is believed to be the principal orchestrator of the scam. As the investigation progresses, several new individuals are reportedly emerging as part of the broader conspiracy.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also entered the scene to probe financial transactions linked to the scam. The agency has filed a petition before the ACB court seeking permission to record Raj Kasireddy’s statement. This petition is also scheduled for a hearing on May 19.
Additionally, the ACB court on Friday heard the custody petition related to Govindappa Balaji, listed as the third accused (A3) in the case. The court instructed that a counter be filed and adjourned the hearing to May 19. Authorities are seeking extended custody of Balaji, who was arrested and remanded three days ago, in order to extract further crucial information. It is reported that investigators have requested nearly a week-long custody period.
The upcoming hearings on May 19 are expected to be critical in shaping the future course of the liquor scam investigation.