Vijayawada: In a major crackdown ahead of the MLC elections, prohibition and excise officials uncovered an illegal liquor racket in Narsapuram, West Godavari district. The raid led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of illicit alcohol, allegedly stockpiled for election-related distribution.
Authorities arrested one person who in possession of two bottles of royal grande malt whisky (180ml). Further investigations led to the discovery of approximately 4,500 bottles of suspected spurious liquor concealed in an aqua farm near Narsapur.
Two individuals taken into custody were identified as Gollamandala Rajababu (35) of Kopparru village and Barre Jayaraju (42) of Narsapuram town. Officials suspect the liquor was part of a scheme to influence voters.
The investigation linked the illicit trade to Narsapur municipality chairperson Barre Venkataramana, who allegedly procured large quantities of liquor through her husband, Barre Jayaraju, during the elections. Authorities are probing further political connections in connection with case.
West Godavari district prohibition and excise officer Dr Kumareswaran stressed that strict legal action will be taken against those involved.
The raid was led by Narsapuram SHO Rambabu, with contributions from assistant commissioner Prabhu Kumar and assistant excise superintendent Prasad Reddy. The operation was supervised by enforcement director Rahul Dev Sharma and deputy commissioner Sreelatha.
In a high-level review meeting, commissioner Nishanth Kumar and enforcement director Rahul Dev Sharma assessed revenue mobilization and crime control measures, instructing officials to remain vigilant against any illicit activities affecting election integrity.
The investigations are underway and further arrests are expected.
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