ED widens AP liquor scam probe with fresh searches in Hyderabad

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into the alleged Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, conducting searches at multiple locations in Hyderabad and Tirupati. Properties linked to former Rajya Sabha member V. Vijayasai Reddy and ex-MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy were among those raided.

Hyderabad: Stepping up its investigation into the alleged Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday conducted searches at multiple locations in Hyderabad and Tirupati, targeting individuals believed to be closely linked to the previous YSR Congress Party regime.

According to sources, the coordinated operation covered around a dozen premises connected to key associates of former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Among those whose properties were searched were former Rajya Sabha member V Vijayasai Reddy and former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, along with several others suspected to have played roles in the alleged irregularities.

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Sources indicated that teams of ED officials simultaneously carried out searches across the two cities as part of a continuing probe under an existing Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR).

Documents related to property holdings, financial transactions and business dealings were reportedly seized during the searches and are being examined.

Investigators are looking into allegations that the liquor procurement process was manipulated during the previous administration, potentially allowing undue benefits to select entities. The probe is also focused on tracking the movement of funds.

The ED is expected to analyse the seized material to establish links between decision-making processes and financial transactions. Further summons and questioning of individuals connected to the case are likely in the coming days.