Concerns Rise Over Missing Pitt Student Sudiksha Konanki’s Disappearance
Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, is missing in the Dominican Republic, with her family fearing she may have been kidnapped. Local authorities initially suggested drowning, but the family filed a complaint for further investigation into foul play. Search efforts involve various agencies as they seek more information on her disappearance.
The family of Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student, is increasingly concerned that she may have been kidnapped in the Dominican Republic. Authorities previously suggested that the 20-year-old pre-med student likely drowned after an incident at the Riu Republic Resort in Punta Cana during her spring break. However, a complaint has been filed asserting the need for further investigation into potential foul play, including kidnapping.
The complaint notes, “While it is possible that Sudiksha drowned, there is a growing suspicion that there may be a crime, specifically the possibility of kidnapping.” Sudiksha’s father, Subbarayudu Konanki, expressed skepticism about the drowning theory, stating, “It’s four days, and if she was in water, she would likely have been strewn to shore.”
Sudiksha’s father traveled to Punta Cana with family members to seek answers, urging authorities to explore all possible scenarios, including abduction. The family noted that Sudiksha’s belongings, including her phone and wallet, were left behind with her friends, which her father found unusual since she typically carried her phone with her.
Sudiksha and her friends reportedly went to the beach around 4 a.m. after she indicated she was heading to a party. Her friends returned later without her, leading to concern for her safety. Surveillance footage captured Konanki’s group near the beach prior to her disappearance.
The resort’s officials reported that her friends informed them of her absence around 4 p.m.—approximately 12 hours after Sudiksha was last seen. Search efforts included helicopters and ground searches in the nearby bay and surrounding areas. Assistance has come from various agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations.
The University of Pittsburgh is actively coordinating with Sudiksha’s family while local law enforcement conducts the investigation. Sudiksha, who is an Indian national, has five fellow students from Pitt also staying at the resort with her, highlighting the urgent need for clarity in this troubling situation.
The case of Sudiksha Konanki raises significant concerns regarding her disappearance in the Dominican Republic, with her family suspecting possible foul play rather than an accidental drowning. Multiple agencies, including the FBI and local authorities, are involved in the investigation as they seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding her vanishing. The family is determined to ensure that all avenues, including potential kidnapping, are thoroughly explored by investigators.
Original Source: nypost.com
