Joshua Riibe Asserts Release Amid Sudiksha Konanki Disappearance Investigation
Joshua Riibe, the man last seen with Sudiksha Konanki, claims he cannot be detained any longer without charges. He was with Konanki during her disappearance in Punta Cana on March 6, and inconsistencies in his statements have raised concerns among investigators. His lawyer argues for his release while also noting his passport has been confiscated, restricting his movement.
Joshua Riibe, the last person seen with missing Indian-American student Sudiksha Konanki, has demanded his release from custody in the Dominican Republic, asserting he cannot be detained without charges. He has been under questioning by authorities but has not been formally charged or identified as a suspect in the case. His lawyer, Beatriz Santana, highlighted the illegal nature of his continued detention without charges and noted that his passport has been confiscated, restricting his movement even within the hotel where he is being held.
Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, disappeared on March 6 while vacationing in Punta Cana with friends. Riibe, who was not part of their travel group, met them at the resort. After a night of partying at a disco until 3 am, Konanki and her friends were last seen at the beach shortly before 5:50 am, where she remained with Riibe as her friends departed.
Surveillance footage indicates that Konanki and Riibe were at an outdoor bar prior to her disappearance, with Konanki appearing ill in the video. While she is seen vomiting briefly, Riibe, also seemingly intoxicated, was shown being consoled by another man. Importantly, the video confirms that their only interaction was limited, with no direct engagement taking place.
Authorities report that Riibe has given inconsistent accounts concerning his last interactions with Konanki. He has stated conflicting versions of events, including claims of seeing her in the water or walking along the shore, and even suggested he rescued her from rough waters. These discrepancies are concerning for investigators as they seek clarity in the ongoing search for Konanki.
In summary, Joshua Riibe, considered a person of interest in Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance, is challenging his continued detention without charges by Dominican authorities. Sudiksha was last seen on a beach after a night out, and surveillance footage has raised questions about the nature of her interactions with Riibe. His conflicting statements have complicated the investigation into her whereabouts.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
