Passport Confiscated for Iowan Student Amid Investigation of Missing Peer
Joshua Riibe, a 22-year-old Iowan, is a person of interest in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki in the Dominican Republic. Confined to a hotel with a police escort, he maintains his willingness to cooperate. His family expresses concern for his well-being and the conditions of his detention while community support continues to grow for them.
In the Dominican Republic, authorities have confiscated the passport of Joshua Riibe, a 22-year-old student from Iowa, designated as a person of interest in the disappearance of 20-year-old Sudiksha Konanki. Riibe, attending St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, is currently confined to his hotel and escorted by police. He was reportedly the last person seen with Konanki before she vanished on March 6 while on spring break.
Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, traveled to the Dominican Republic with five friends. She was last seen on March 6 early in the morning at the beach with Riibe. Surveillance footage shows them leaving the beach area together, with Riibe later seen departing alone. Officials stipulate that he is not a suspect and that the investigation so far is non-criminal.
Riibe’s family expressed deep dismay over Konanki’s disappearance, emphasizing their concern for her family as well. They stated their willingness to cooperate with the investigation, but highlighted the irregular circumstances in which Riibe is being held, including a lack of legal counsel during extensive questioning. This predicament has prompted them to seek legal advice.
The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office released a statement of support from Riibe’s friends, emphasizing his character and commitment to community values. They asked for privacy for Riibe’s family as they navigate this challenging situation.
During questioning, Riibe described his interactions with Konanki, stating they had kissed and then encountered trouble in the ocean. He recounted attempting to help her, stating that once they surfaced, they sought help but found no one available. The area experienced a power outage shortly before Konanki’s disappearance, though systems were restored before her last sighting at the hotel.
The case surrounding Joshua Riibe and Sudiksha Konanki continues to unfold in the Dominican Republic. Riibe remains under scrutiny but is not classified as a suspect, while his family expresses concern over his treatment amid ongoing investigations. The community stands with Riibe as legal actions are contemplated to ensure his rights and safety.
Original Source: www.desmoinesregister.com
