Former minister Karumuri Nageswara Rao and his son Karumuri Sunil Kumar have come under fresh legal scrutiny in connection with the ongoing liquor transport contract investigation. According to officials, investigators uncovered an alleged attempt to bribe members of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to avoid being named in the case. The development surfaced during the probe into irregularities in government liquor transport contracts during the previous YSRCP regime.
Alleged ₹25 Lakh Bribe to Influence SIT
Investigators revealed that the father and son allegedly handed over ₹25 lakh to an intermediary identified as Kaku Munikumar. They reportedly asked him to “manage” SIT officials and prevent their names from being added to the accused list. However, the alleged plan collapsed after investigators questioned Munikumar.
Based on a complaint filed by SIT member R. Sriharibabu, police registered a fresh case at Suryaraopet Police Station in Vijayawada. Authorities invoked Sections 318(4) and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for cheating and criminal conspiracy.
Earlier CID Case Over Liquor Contracts
Last month, the Andhra Pradesh CID booked Karumuri Nageswara Rao, his son Sunil Kumar, and daughter-in-law Keerthi over alleged irregularities in liquor transport tenders. The case relates to accusations that large commissions were collected in exchange for awarding contracts.
During questioning on the 24th of last month, investigators examined Sandeep, who manages operations for Sudarshan Constructions. Sandeep reportedly stated that he paid ₹9 crore as commission to secure a liquor transport contract from Sigma Company. Furthermore, he alleged that the accused threatened him to prevent the disclosure of details related to the scam.
Intermediary’s Confession Exposes Plot
When SIT officials summoned Kaku Munikumar on the 25th, he allegedly disclosed the full sequence of events. He admitted that Karumuri Nageswara Rao and Sunil Kumar approached him to influence the SIT. However, he confessed that he had no direct contacts within the SIT. Instead, he claimed he misled Sunil Kumar into believing he could manage officials and took the ₹25 lakh.
Munikumar further admitted that he never delivered the money to SIT officers and falsely told the accused that he had done so. After recording his statement and verifying details, officials filed a formal complaint, leading to the latest FIR.
Witness Intimidation Alleged
Investigators also found indications that certain witnesses faced pressure during the inquiry. Authorities are now examining those claims as part of the broader liquor transport scam probe.
The case has intensified political attention in Andhra Pradesh, as agencies continue to dig deeper into the alleged irregularities. Officials confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, and further action will follow based on evidence collected.
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