ED raids seven locations in Hyderabad, Kadapa over Vivekananda Reddy death

The ED conducted coordinated searches at seven locations across Hyderabad and Kadapa on Wednesday as it widened its probe into the case involving the former state minister. The searches were part of a broader investigation into financial irregularities and alleged proceeds of crime linked to the matter.

Vivekananda Reddy, who served as a minister in the previous Andhra Pradesh government, died in March 2019 in what was initially reported as a murder case. The incident had drawn significant political attention in the state, with various angles of investigation being pursued by law enforcement agencies.

The ED's action signals an expanded focus on the financial dimensions of the case. The federal agency typically intervenes in such investigations when there are suspected money laundering elements or misuse of proceeds of crime, suggesting that investigators may have uncovered financial transactions of interest.

The simultaneous raids across multiple locations in both cities indicate a coordinated effort to gather documentary evidence and digital records. Preliminary reports suggest the searches covered residential and commercial premises associated with individuals connected to the case.