The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into a multi-crore liquor scam that allegedly occurred in Andhra Pradesh during the tenure of the YSR Congress Party government.
Having already registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the ED has now shifted its focus to Raj Kesireddy, the prime accused (A1) in the case.
Currently in judicial custody, Raj Kesireddy is expected to be interrogated, and his statement officially recorded.
In this regard, ED’s legal counsel, Jayaprakash, has filed a petition before the ACB Special Court in Vijayawada seeking permission to proceed.
The presiding judge has directed the ED to submit a copy of the ECIR and other related documents, which are expected to be filed by Friday.
The ED has identified that nearly ₹3,200 crore in bribes, collected from major liquor supply companies and distilleries, were routed through shell and fictitious companies across multiple layers before reaching the final beneficiaries. Investigators are now working to trace the origins of these funds.
Raj Kesireddy is believed to have acted on behalf of senior government officials and played a central role in executing the scam. His interrogation aims to gather critical information to support the investigation.
So far, the ED has compiled details of bank accounts and assets linked to the accused individuals, suspects, and associated entities.
The agency is examining these financial and property records in detail, using information obtained from the SIT (Special Investigation Team) remand reports and statements of those arrested.
Following Raj Kesireddy’s interrogation, the ED plans to summon and question other accused individuals.
