ED Summons YSRCP MP Avinash Reddy in Alleged ₹40 Crore Murder Money Trail Probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Yuvajana Sramika Rythu (YSR) Congress Party MP Y S Avinash Reddy for questioning on October 14 in connection with its probe into an alleged ₹40-crore money trail linked to the 2019 murder of former Andhra Pradesh minister Y S Vivekananda Reddy. People familiar with the matter said the agency is examining the alleged financial arrangements connected with the killing.

The ED issued the notice asking Avinash Reddy to appear before the agency on October 14. The development comes after the agency questioned four individuals as part of its investigation into the alleged financial transactions associated with the murder. The probe is focused on tracing the movement of money and examining whether funds were allegedly arranged in connection with the killing.

Avinash Reddy and his father, Y S Bhaskar Reddy, are listed as accused Nos. 7 and 8 respectively in the case. The ED is reportedly examining an alleged arrangement involving payment to the people accused of carrying out the murder. The agency has registered a separate money laundering case based on the investigation and findings of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

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The CBI is investigating the circumstances surrounding Vivekananda Reddy's death, while the ED is examining the alleged financial trail connected with the crime. In a related development earlier this week, the ED questioned prime accused Yerra Gangi Reddy over alleged financial transactions. The agency also questioned other accused, including Sunil Yadav and Shaik Dastagiri, in connection with the financial aspects of the case.

The ED's investigation is examining allegations of a ₹40-crore deal, described in the probe as an alleged “supari” arrangement for the murder, as well as claims regarding the movement and use of funds. The agency has also been examining bank transactions and other financial records as part of efforts to establish the source and movement of the alleged money linked to the crime.

Vivekananda Reddy, a former minister and Parliamentarian, was found dead at his residence in Pulivendula in Kadapa district in March 2019. His death led to prolonged legal proceedings, with the CBI subsequently taking up the investigation. Avinash Reddy's appearance before the ED on October 14 is expected to form part of the agency's continuing examination of the alleged financial trail in the case.

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