HYDERABAD: The drugs case is getting murkier with each passing day revealing the dark side of the Tollywood. Actor P Subbaraju, who was questioned by the SIT of Telangana excise department on Friday, in connection with the ongoing drug racket, is learnt to have named 15 Tollywood personalities including two top actors and children of a veteran actor who were involved in it.
The two actors include a woman artiste who has played negative roles in films directed by a director, who is known for social media controversies. These names are in addition to the 12 film celebrities summoned and 15 others who were likely to be issued summons soon. With Subbaraju’s disclosures, the total number of Tollywood personalities linked with the case has reached 42.
Speaking to media, after coming out of the excise office at 11 pm, Subbaraju said: “I came here after I was summoned. I gave all information I have with regard to the case.The government is serious in rooting out drugs. I will come and provide information if the SIT wants me again. It is very said that students are involved in drugs.’’
Based on the third day’s questioning alone, it is learnt, the SIT investigators could carry out an in-depth inquiry into the case. The officials have come to know that 16 pubs in Hyderabad are ideal spots for drug peddling and consumption of narcotics. “We have got very good leads. The names of 16 pubs have surfaced during the probe. The pub owners and bar managers in Hyderabad were asked to attend a meeting on Saturday. Though the names of other pubs are not in the list, they are also asked to attend the meeting,” Akun Sabharwal, excise director told media.
Speaking to Express, a senior excise official said “Commenting on it now is not right as the investigation is still on.” Sources said the 15 persons including the two top stars would be summoned for questioning in August. On Saturday, a new team of doctors visited SIT office to collect samples of Subbaraju for drug analysis, sources said.