Andhra Excise Police Nab Ex-Minister Jogi Ramesh in Fake Liquor Scam
In a high-profile crackdown, the Andhra Pradesh Excise Police arrested former Minister and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Jogi Ramesh along with two accomplices for allegedly operating a spurious liquor network. The bust has exposed alleged ties between politicians and illegal alcohol syndicates in the state.
Key Details of the Raid
- Location: Prakasam district and neighboring areas
- Seizures: 1,000+ liters of fake alcohol, bottling machinery, counterfeit brand labels
- Arrests: Jogi Ramesh (ex-Minister) + 2 local distributors
Investigators revealed the racket used political protection to distribute toxic liquor across Andhra-Telangana borders. Ramesh was detained at his Ongole residence after a 3-month surveillance operation.
Political Earthquake in Andhra
The arrest has triggered a firestorm:
- Opposition Reaction:
- TDP demands CBI probe into “YSRCP-liquor mafia nexus”
-
Jana Sena calls for statewide excise reforms
-
YSRCP Response:
“No tolerance for illegality. Law will decide Ramesh’s fate,” stated party spokesperson.
Public Health Nightmare
Medical reports show spurious liquor causes:
✓ Blindness
✓ Liver failure
✓ Death
Recent hooch tragedies in Andhra (2022: 25 deaths, 2023: 18 deaths) highlight the crisis. Activist K. Anitha warns: “This is institutionalized crime endangering poor communities.”
Legal Developments
- Charges Filed: AP Prohibition Act + IPC 328 (causing hurt by poison)
- Probe Expansion: ED may investigate money laundering angles
- Bail Status: Ramesh remanded to 14-day judicial custody
What’s Next?
With elections approaching, this case could:
– Influence liquor policy reforms
– Impact YSRCP’s electoral prospects
– Expose deeper interstate bootlegging networks
Next hearing scheduled for [DATE] at [COURT NAME].
