CID raids liquor distilleries across Andhra Pradesh, investigates massive scam

The Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Andhra Pradesh conducted widespread raids across multiple liquor distilleries, exposing alleged irregularities in production, sales, and billing as part of a massive liquor scam investigation.

In Short

• CID conducted raids at 30 locations across Andhra Pradesh, targeting liquor distilleries
• Investigation uncovered irregularities in liquor production, billing, and cash transactions
• Allegations point to former Excise Commissioner Vasudeva Reddy’s involvement in liquor scam

In a major crackdown, the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Andhra Pradesh conducted simultaneous raids on liquor distilleries across the state as part of an ongoing investigation into irregularities in liquor production and supply. The operation began yesterday and is expected to continue for two more days.

WIDESPREAD RAIDS ACROSS 30 LOCATIONS

As many as 20 CID teams were dispatched to 30 locations, including distilleries, depots, and retail outlets in districts such as Krishna, NTR, and East Godavari. The raids are part of a broader effort by the state government to curb the illicit liquor trade and increase revenue. The investigation focuses on large-scale irregularities that allegedly took place during the tenure of the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government.

IRREGULARITIES IN LIQUOR PRODUCTION AND SALES

Preliminary findings suggest that digital payment systems were bypassed in favour of regular cash transactions, and that excess liquor was produced and sold without proper billing. The CID is currently scrutinising documents to determine the full extent of the revenue loss caused by these irregularities.

POLITICAL ALLEGATIONS AND EXCISE POLICY

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has alleged that former Excise Commissioner Vasudeva Reddy was involved in a major liquor scam, further intensifying the political controversy surrounding the case. The raids follow the implementation of the state’s new excise policy, which aims to create a more transparent liquor trade by cracking down on corruption and curbing illegal liquor sales.

GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to take strict action against those involved in the scam. The ongoing raids are viewed as a significant step towards cleansing the liquor industry and ensuring accountability in the state’s excise department.