Andhra Liquor Scam: Prime Suspect Held While Trying to Flee Near Nepal Border

In a significant development in the alleged ₹3,500-crore liquor scam linked to the tenure of the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (2019–2024), Andhra Pradesh Police have arrested key accused Pranay Prakash near the Indo-Nepal border.

According to officials, security personnel identified and detained him at the Nepal border on Sunday. A senior police officer said he was formally taken into custody on Monday. “He was intercepted at the border two days ago and is now in our custody,” the officer stated during a press briefing.

Investigators disclosed that Pranay Prakash was allegedly attempting to escape to Dubai via the Sonauli dry port in Uttar Pradesh. As a Look Out Circular had already been issued against him, a special police team was rushed to the location upon receiving intelligence inputs, resulting in his arrest.

Police termed the arrest a crucial breakthrough in the high-profile case, which has triggered intense political debate across the state. Officials said the investigation will now intensify, focusing on financial transactions , the role of various accused, and alleged irregularities in liquor supply, brand clearances, and procurement procedures.

Pranay Prakash is being brought to Andhra Pradesh and will be produced before a court, where police will seek his remand . Authorities also hinted at the possibility of further arrests in the case.

Meanwhile, another prime accused, Muppidi Avinash Reddy, recently surrendered before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) . He was subsequently produced before a local court and remanded to judicial custody, officials said.

The SIT is probing allegations of large-scale liquor syndicate operations during the previous regime. Police believe the arrest of Pranay Prakash marks a key milestone and could lead to further revelations in the ongoing probe.