Intensifying Search for Missing Sudiksha Konanki: Key Witness Interrogated

Dominican Republic authorities are intensifying their search for missing student Sudiksha Konanki. Attorney General questioned Joshua Riibe, the last person with her. Riibe faces scrutiny due to conflicting statements. His family raised concerns over treatment while he cooperates with the investigation. Authorities launched an expansive search operation.

Authorities in the Dominican Republic have intensified their search for missing Virginia college student Sudiksha Konanki. Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso personally interrogated Joshua Riibe, the last known individual seen with Konanki, for several hours in his hotel room. Riibe, a senior studying at St. Cloud State University, vacationed with Konanki, who is a University of Pittsburgh student. Konanki disappeared early on March 6 after being seen on the beach with Riibe.

While Riibe has not been named a suspect or charged with any crime, authorities have classified him as a “key element” in the investigation, seizing his passport days ago as he attempted to leave the hotel. Riibe’s family has raised concerns about the treatment he has received, claiming he has faced “irregular conditions” and has been subjected to multiple interrogations without legal representation.

Investigators are closely examining conflicting statements made by Riibe regarding Konanki’s disappearance. In one version of events, Riibe alleged that both he and Konanki were swept offshore but that he managed to bring her back. In a contrasting account, he mentioned becoming ill and passing out as she remained in the water. Surveillance footage reveals that six friends left the beach at approximately 6 a.m., while Riibe returned alone a few hours later, and Konanki’s friends reported her missing by 4 p.m.

An extensive search effort has been initiated along the coastline, utilizing boats, planes, helicopters, dive teams, K9 units, and drones equipped with artificial intelligence. This incident is particularly alarming given the complexities surrounding the same resort, where four European tourists drowned two months prior. Although U.S. authorities such as the State Department are monitoring the case, public comments have been limited due to privacy considerations.

Riibe’s parents assert that their son is cooperating with authorities and expressed their deep dismay regarding Konanki’s disappearance. They stated, “Joshua is deeply dismayed by her disappearance and has fully cooperated from the very beginning.” Investigators continue to analyze phone records from both Konanki and other witnesses as the investigation remains ongoing.

The ongoing investigation into Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance has gained momentum following the Attorney General’s direct interrogation of Joshua Riibe, the last individual reportedly seen with her. With key evidence emerging from surveillance footage and conflicting witness statements, authorities are conducting a thorough search. Additionally, Riibe’s family expresses concerns regarding his treatment while maintaining their son’s cooperation in the ongoing investigation.

Original Source: www.fox5dc.com