₹11 Crore Seized in Andhra Liquor Scam Raid
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Andhra Pradesh liquor policy scam has seized ₹11 crore in cash from a farmhouse located in Kacharam village near Hyderabad. The money was recovered from 12 cardboard boxes disguised as office file cartons, during a raid conducted based on information provided by one of the accused in the case.
Accused Confessed Location of Stashed Money
The key tip came from accused Varun Purushottam, who revealed that the cash had been hidden at the Sulochana Farm Guest House under instructions from another prime accused, Kesireddy Rajasekhar Reddy. The raid also pointed to the involvement of another individual, Chanakya, who allegedly helped conceal the money back in June 2024.
Larger Scam Under Investigation
Officials believe that this ₹11 crore is only a small portion of a much bigger scam involving alleged illegal commissions, excise policy manipulation, and money laundering. The scam, which allegedly unfolded during the previous government’s term from 2019 to 2024, is estimated to be worth between ₹3,200 and ₹3,500 crore. Authorities suspect that bribes were collected from distilleries and routed through shell companies.
Assets Attached and More Raids Expected
The government has already frozen and attached assets and bank accounts worth ₹33 crore linked to the accused. Companies under the scanner include distilleries, real estate firms, and suspected front entities. Investigators are now tracking additional movable and immovable assets, including gold and foreign transactions.
Political Reactions Follow
The case has intensified political tensions in Andhra Pradesh. While the ruling government claims the investigation is evidence-based, the opposition alleges political vendetta. SIT officials have stated that further questioning is underway and more recoveries are likely in the coming weeks.
