Raj Kasireddy arrested in Andhra liquor scam

Raj Kasireddy, the former IT advisor to ex-Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, was arrested by the Andhra Pradesh Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) at Hyderabad’s Shamshabad Airport on Monday, April 21, 2025. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing probe into the alleged Rs 4,000 crore liquor scam that reportedly occurred during the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) regime.

Kasireddy, identified as a key accused in the multi-crore scandal, was detained upon his arrival from Dubai. The SIT, which has been investigating the scam, suspects Kasireddy played a central role in orchestrating the financial irregularities that caused substantial losses to the state exchequer. He was subsequently taken to Vijayawada for further questioning.

The Andhra Pradesh Police had issued multiple notices to Kasireddy, summoning him for interrogation regarding his alleged involvement in the scam. Despite four prior notices, Kasireddy had failed to appear before the SIT, prompting authorities to intensify their efforts to apprehend him.

On Monday, acting on information about his arrival in Hyderabad, SIT officials moved swiftly to take him into custody.

Vijaysai Reddy provided information!

Former YSRCP Rajya Sabha member V Vijayasai Reddy, who was questioned by the SIT on April 18, alleged that Kasireddy was the “mastermind” behind the liquor scam. Reddy claimed Kasireddy established three companies and launched multiple liquor brands, securing significant financing to facilitate the illicit dealings. The SIT has also conducted raids at 15 locations linked to Kasireddy in Hyderabad, including his residences and businesses, uncovering documents that reportedly strengthen the case against him.

The liquor scam, allegedly involving thousands of crores, has been a focal point of political contention in Andhra Pradesh. The current Chandrababu Naidu-led government has vowed to pursue those responsible, with investigations pointing to Kasireddy as a pivotal figure in the financial transactions. Sources indicate that the SIT is probing how the scam was orchestrated, including the movement of funds, with some reports suggesting Rs 4,000 crore may have been siphoned out of the country.

Kasireddy, who had been evading authorities and reportedly went underground after realizing his arrest was imminent, had released an audio message stating he would appear before the SIT on Tuesday, April 22. However, his detention at the airport preempted his planned appearance. His anticipatory bail petition, pending in the High Court, remains unresolved, further complicating his legal standing.