Continued Search for Missing University of Pittsburgh Student in Dominican Republic

Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, has been missing in the Dominican Republic since Thursday. Authorities consider drowning and abduction as possibilities, but no evidence supports these theories. The search continues with the involvement of her family, local law enforcement, and the Indian embassy, amid concerns raised by her father.

The search continues for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, missing in the Dominican Republic. Officials suggest potential drowning or abduction, yet no evidence currently supports either theory. Konanki was last seen on Thursday at Hotel Riu Republica in Punta Cana, shortly before 5 a.m. Surveillance footage reportedly shows six individuals leaving the beach around 6 a.m. that day, and a male companion who remained with her is being questioned.

According to her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, Sudiksha traveled for spring break ahead of her pre-med studies. Friends reported her absence when she failed to return to her room after going to a party. Dominican officials cited drowning as a possibility, suggesting she and the male companion may have been caught in a wave while swimming. However, local sheriff’s office officials have stated, “At this time, we are not aware of any evidence to support the theory.”

Subbarayudu Konanki urges investigators to explore other scenarios, including abduction, stating, “I want them to also investigate other possibilities including whether this is a case of kidnapping or human trafficking.” He expressed concern for his daughter’s wellbeing, as he doubts she could survive more than three days in the water. The sheriff’s office has confirmed that Konanki was among six female students traveling together.

The Indian embassy in the Dominican Republic has taken the lead in coordinating search efforts with U.S. authorities. The University of Pittsburgh is actively supporting Konanki’s family and assisting in the search for her safe return. Hotel Riu Republica has also expressed concern and collaboration with local authorities for thorough search operations. Konanki, who graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, is well-regarded academically.

The search for Sudiksha Konanki unfolds amidst concerns of drowning and abduction. While Dominican officials speculate on drowning, her father calls for a broader investigation into potential kidnapping. The University of Pittsburgh and local authorities are collaborating with the Indian embassy to locate Konanki, who is remembered as a promising student. Public assistance is requested for any information regarding her whereabouts.

Original Source: triblive.com