Former Andhra Pradesh Mining Director Arrested

VG Venkata Reddy, the former Director of Mines and Geology in Andhra Pradesh, was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for his alleged involvement in a sand mining scam that resulted in a loss of approximately ₹2,566 crore to the state exchequer. Reddy had been absconding for three months after an FIR was filed against him, and he was apprehended in Hyderabad before being brought to Vijayawada where he was remanded to judicial custody until October 10. The charges against him include criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and various violations of mining regulations, with accusations of colluding with private companies to misappropriate government funds. The ACB's investigation revealed serious irregularities in tender processes and illegal mining operations during Reddy's tenure. Alongside Reddy, six other individuals associated with private firms have also been named in the case, which is part of a broader inquiry into corruption within the department. The case has raised concerns about environmental violations and misuse of authority within the state's mining sector.