Mystery Deepens Around Disappearance of Indian-Origin Student in…

Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, went missing in the Dominican Republic under suspicious circumstances while vacationing with friends. Conflicting accounts regarding her last known whereabouts have raised concerns of foul play, prompting her family to seek a broader inquiry. Extensive search efforts are ongoing, involving local and international law enforcement agencies, while family members continue to hope for her safe return.

The disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old student from the University of Pittsburgh, is shrouded in mystery as no major breakthroughs have occurred since she went missing four days ago in the Dominican Republic. The Indian citizen and US permanent resident was last seen at the Riu Republica Resort in Punta Cana on March 6 during a vacation with friends, raising concerns for her safety amid conflicting accounts from companions and her anxious family.

Sudiksha was reportedly seen in the early morning hours at the beach. Her family suspects foul play and urges authorities to examine the possibility of kidnapping. Her disappearance was reported nearly 12 hours after her friends last saw her, which raises further alarm. The family’s distress escalates with the lack of updates from the authorities.

The last person to see Sudiksha, Joshua Steven Ribe, a 24-year-old tourist, has provided inconsistent statements about the events leading to her disappearance. While he claims he checked on her before losing consciousness, varying accounts cast doubt on his recollection. Despite this, Dominican police have not identified him as a suspect, although he is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Surveillance footage from the resort revealed that Sudiksha’s friends were at a disco until 3 am before heading to the beach at 4 am. Authorities have mobilized an extensive search operation using drones, helicopters, and divers, but concerns about finding her alive have grown. The head of the Dominican Republic’s Civil Defence expressed that the chances of locating her are minimal, especially since her belongings were found on a lounge chair at the beach.

The family has raised doubts about the theory of accidental drowning due to the absence of Sudiksha’s phone and wallet with her friends, which is unusual behavior for her. Her father has formally requested a broader investigation into possible kidnapping or abduction. A family friend also questioned where she could be if she wasn’t in the water or at the resort facilities.

As the search continues, the Dominican National Police are interviewing friends and resort guests while reviewing additional surveillance footage from nearby areas. International law enforcement bodies, including the FBI and DEA, have offered support. The Indian Embassy’s involvement intensifies the call for a thorough and diligent investigation as Sudiksha’s family remains hopeful for her return.

The situation surrounding Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance poses significant concerns regarding safety and potential foul play, particularly given the inconsistencies in witness accounts and the delay in reporting her missing. The family’s demand for a broader investigation into kidnapping possibilities underscores their unease. With international assistance joining local efforts, the quest for answers remains critical to ensure a comprehensive search for Sudiksha.

Original Source: www.newindianexpress.com