In a significant breakthrough, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested Vasudeva Reddy (A2), the former Managing Director of the AP Beverages Corporation. Reddy, who held the position for five years, is accused of playing a central role in a ₹3,500 crore liquor scandal. Investigations revealed that he allegedly bypassed regulations by scrapping the automated supply system in favor of a manual process, which allowed for the manipulation of orders. Authorities claim he sidelined popular national brands to promote low-quality local labels in exchange for massive commissions.
Prior to his arrest, Vasudeva Reddy and another accused, Satya Prasad (A3), had filed petitions in the ACB Court seeking to turn “approvers” (state witnesses) in exchange for a pardon. They offered to reveal the names of the “political bigwigs” behind the scam. However, the ACB Court sternly rejected their request, labeling them the “head” of the conspiracy. The judge remarked that the duo appeared to be “bargaining” with the court, seeking bail as a condition for their cooperation, and noted that granting them immunity would severely compromise the integrity of the investigation.
The case saw further drama as co-accused YSRCP leader Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy filed a petition opposing bail for Vasudeva Reddy. He argued that the main perpetrators were trying to shift the entire blame onto others by turning approvers. With the court’s rejection and the SIT gathering substantial digital and documentary evidence, officials decided that immediate custodial interrogation was necessary. Vasudeva Reddy is scheduled to be produced before the ACB Court in Vijayawada shortly.
