Liquor probe intensifies, SIT takes Avinash into custody

The investigation into the alleged Andhra Pradesh liquor scam has gathered momentum with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) taking Muppidi Avinash Reddy, one of the accused in the case, into custody for detailed questioning. Avinash Reddy, listed as Accused No.7 in the case, was brought to the SIT office in Vijayawada after obtaining court permission, marking a significant development in the ongoing probe.

Avinash Reddy had been lodged in Guntur district jail under judicial remand. Following approval from the court, SIT officials shifted him to their office in Vijayawada, where a team of investigators has begun an intensive interrogation as part of the continuing inquiry into alleged financial irregularities linked to the liquor policy.

Investigators suspect that Avinash Reddy played a key role in handling financial transactions connected to the alleged kickbacks generated through the liquor trade. According to officials, the investigation has revealed that large-scale cash transactions were routed through shell companies, raising concerns about money laundering and illegal fund transfers.

Authorities believe Avinash Reddy maintained close links with the prime accused in the case, Raj Kesireddy, who has been identified as Accused No.1 (A-1). Due to this association, investigators suspect that Avinash Reddy may have been responsible for facilitating the diversion and layering of funds through various financial channels.

Preliminary findings suggest that fake bank accounts were allegedly created under the names of shell companies to route illicit funds. Investigators are probing whether these financial structures were used to convert illegal money generated from liquor-related transactions into seemingly legitimate income.

During the custodial interrogation, SIT officials are focusing on identifying the flow of funds, the network of companies involved and the individuals who may have played roles in managing the alleged kickback system.

Officials said the custodial interrogation will continue for two more days, during which investigators are expected to question Avinash Reddy about the financial trail, links with other accused persons and the operational structure behind the suspected money transactions.