Andhra Pradesh Police Seizes Cash in Ongoing Liquor Scam Probe

The investigation into the alleged Rs 3,500 crore liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh has escalated significantly as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Andhra Pradesh Police seized a substantial amount of cash from a farmhouse near Hyderabad. This development follows the recovery of a video that reportedly features a key accused, Venkatesh Naidu, a close aide of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader and former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, allegedly counting bundles of cash.

The video, which has circulated widely on social media, could provide crucial insights into the illicit financial activities associated with the case. The SIT’s efforts have intensified after the confession of Varun Purushotham, identified as the 40th accused in the ongoing investigation. Purushotham’s admission reportedly led to the raids that uncovered the concealed cash reserves.

On the same day, Kasireddy Raja Sekhar Reddy, the primary accused in the alleged Rs 3,200 crore liquor scam during the previous YSRCP government, filed an affidavit in court denying any connection to the Rs 11 crore in cash seized near Hyderabad. Reddy, who has been in judicial custody at Vijayawada sub-jail since April 22, 2023, expressed concerns in his affidavit that the prosecution is “hell-bent” on preventing him from obtaining bail.

In his statements, Reddy criticized the prosecution for what he described as “persecution” rather than legitimate legal action. He characterized the claims linking him to the seized cash as “a complete falsehood,” asserting that the allegations are fabricated and lack substantial evidence.

The ongoing investigation raises significant questions about the flow of illicit funds within the liquor trade in Andhra Pradesh. The involvement of high-profile individuals and the scale of the alleged scam highlight the complexities of the case. The SIT has not only focused on financial transactions but also seeks to uncover the broader network of individuals implicated in the scandal.

As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to delve deeper into the connections between the seized cash and the accused individuals. The implications of this case could extend beyond legal proceedings, potentially affecting political dynamics in the state.

In the wake of these developments, the Andhra Pradesh Police remains vigilant, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability in this high-stakes investigation. The recovery of the video and the subsequent legal actions underscore the seriousness of the allegations and the determination of law enforcement to address corruption within the liquor trade.