Person of Interest in Sudiksha Konanki Disappearance Speaks Out

Joshua Riibe, a person of interest in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, has spoken publicly after his passport was seized by authorities. He described a struggle in the ocean before losing sight of Konanki. Dominican authorities view the disappearance as an accident while Riibe’s family raises concerns about his treatment during the investigation. Riu Hotels is cooperating with the search efforts.

Joshua Riibe, identified as a person of interest in the case of the missing Dominican Republic tourist Sudiksha Konanki, has spoken out following the seizure of his passport. Authorities announced last week that Riibe was the last individual seen with Konanki before she disappeared on March 6. Surveillance footage captures them together, along with two women, departing from a location together. Currently, Riibe is confined to the Riu Republica resort in Punta Cana, under police escort and unable to leave the premises.

In an effort to assist authorities, Mr. Riibe stated, “I am just trying to help them out. The ocean is a dangerous place.” Although not charged with any crime, Riibe recounted to investigators that he and Konanki spent time on the beach shortly before her disappearance. He indicated they were in the water when a large wave hit, knocking them both into the ocean, where he struggled to keep her afloat.

Riibe described the ordeal, stating, “It took me a long time to get her out, it was difficult. I was a lifeguard in the pool, not in the sea.” After managing to reach the shore, he noticed Konanki was still in the water. He asked if she was alright but did not hear her response, as he began to vomit seawater ingested during the struggle. Upon looking around after recovering, he assumed she had left the beach.

The Dominican authorities have confirmed that Riibe remains in custody for interrogation to collect further information about Konanki’s disappearance. Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso emphasized the commitment to thoroughly investigate the situation, highlighting the urgency of addressing the concerns of both families involved.

Surveillance footage reviewed shows Riibe departing the beach alone at 9:55 a.m., with no indication of Konanki’s whereabouts. Riibe’s family expressed their concerns regarding his treatment, claiming he has been interrogated for excessive periods and under irregular conditions since March 6. They retained legal counsel to ensure his rights and safety throughout the investigation process, affirming his good character and community involvement.

In light of the incident, President Luis Abinader commented on March 10, indicating the investigation is treating Konanki’s disappearance as an accident resulting from a wave incident. He reassured that tourist safety remains a priority in the Dominican Republic, a nation hosting over 11 million visitors each year without frequent safety issues. The Riu Hotels chain has conveyed deep concern regarding the incident and expressed commitment to cooperating with local authorities in the ongoing search for Konanki, extending their condolences to her family and friends during this challenging time.

In summary, Joshua Riibe, the last known person with Sudiksha Konanki, is currently under investigation after her disappearance in the Dominican Republic on March 6. Despite being labeled a person of interest, he maintains his innocence and is cooperating with authorities. The case is being viewed as an accident, as confirmed by local officials, and the search for Konanki continues with significant attention towards ensuring a thorough investigation. The family of Riibe is seeking justice and transparency in these distressing circumstances while supporting a call for Konanki’s safe return to her family.

Original Source: globalnews.ca