Hyderabad: The Special Investigation Team completed the custodial interrogation of former SIB chief Prabhakar Rao in the phone tapping case on Thursday. Officials released him from Jubilee Hills police station in the early hours of Friday.
After the custody period ended, SIT officials conducted medical examinations at a government hospital. They later released him from the police station, officials confirmed.
The SIT will submit its report on the case to the Supreme Court on January 16. Acting on Supreme Court directions, authorities extended Prabhakar Rao’s custody from December 19 until Thursday.
Prabhakar Rao surrendered at Jubilee Hills police station on December 12. Following this, a nine-member SIT led by V C Sajjanar questioned him for 14 days as part of the probe.
On the final day of interrogation, the SIT summoned co-accused Praneeth Rao, Bhujanga Rao, Radhakishan Rao and Tirupathanna. Investigators questioned them separately and collected key information, sources said.
Phone tapping case: SIT questions reporting to CM office
During interrogation, SIT officials questioned Prabhakar Rao about his reappointment as SIB chief after retirement. Sources said he replied that the matter should be addressed to K Chandrashekar Rao.
When asked about frequent contact with Harish Rao, Prabhakar Rao reportedly cited security concerns. He told investigators that he contacted him due to alleged Maoist threats.
Sources further said Prabhakar Rao told the SIT that he reported directly to the Chief Minister’s Office. He did not route reports through senior departmental officers, they added.
Meanwhile, senior officials reviewed the SIT investigation after the 14-day custody period. Intelligence chief Vijay Kumar held a meeting with SIT chief Sajjanar and team members.
During the review, officials discussed the possibility of issuing notices to prominent individuals. Sources said authorities may hold another meeting before taking a final call.