- ED raids across Telangana, Delhi-NCR, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
- Probe linked to alleged ₹3,500 crore fund diversion flagged by SIT
- 16 liquor firms accused of paying ₹1,677 crore in bribes for supply orders
- No politicians covered in Tuesday’s searches
- Judicial remand of eight accused extended till September 26
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 23rd Sept: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out searches across Telangana, Delhi-NCR, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka on Tuesday in a money-laundering investigation tied to the alleged Andhra Pradesh liquor scam.
According to officials, the raids targeted intermediaries accused of channeling about ₹3,500 crore through benami firms, shell entities and hawala networks. The probe stems from a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report that highlighted large-scale fund diversion under the YSRCP government’s liquor policy.
Investigators have already questioned several distilleries and prime accused Raj Kasireddy, who remains in judicial custody. No politicians were covered in the day’s searches.
The SIT alleges that 16 liquor companies paid ₹1,677 crore in bribes to secure supply orders worth ₹10,835 crore from the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) between 2019 and 2024. Over 90% of the ₹23,000 crore in total orders reportedly went to just 40 of the 111 registered companies. Funds were allegedly siphoned off as raw-material expenses and brand promotions before being withdrawn in cash for kickbacks.
The ED has invoked the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and continues to summon accused firms and individuals. A special Vijayawada court has extended the judicial remand of eight accused until September 26 as the probe continues.
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