Dominican Authorities Lift Surveillance on Joshua Riibe Amid Investigation of Missing Student

Joshua Riibe is no longer under police surveillance in the case of the missing Sudiksha Konanki, with his passport expected to be returned shortly. He is no longer considered a person of interest following an interview. Konanki’s family has sought a formal declaration of her death as authorities continue the investigation.

Authorities in the Dominican Republic have lifted police surveillance on Joshua Riibe, who had been linked to the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 22-year-old student from Loudoun County, Virginia. Although Riibe is no longer under surveillance, his passport is expected to be returned on Thursday as investigators continue their efforts regarding the case. This decision came after a habeas corpus hearing where his defense sought to release Riibe from police custody following his detainment over the weekend.

Riibe’s father traveled from Iowa to attend the hearing and indicated his intention to stay until his son’s release. Meanwhile, the Dominican Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that Riibe would receive his passport soon. Initially, his legal team was in touch with the local US embassy to secure a new passport. Following an interview on March 13, the Loudoun County deputies declared Riibe no longer a person of interest.

Although Riibe has not faced any charges, he was kept under surveillance for several days after Konanki was last seen on March 6 at a hotel in Punta Cana. He stated that he and Konanki spent time together at the beach the night prior to her disappearance. The court determined that he could move around freely as a witness and not a suspect, but the judge did not have the authority to return his passport.

Konanki, a resident of Chantilly, Virginia, was in the Dominican Republic for spring break. During a court hearing, Riibe expressed his discomfort with being restricted, stating that he had been interviewed repeatedly and was not allowed to leave under his own accord. He also voiced a strong desire to return home.

In a show of compassion, a representative from Riibe’s defense expressed support for Konanki’s family during this challenging time, sharing the collective hope for her swift and safe return. Konanki’s family has petitioned for a formal declaration of her death, trusting the ongoing investigation while acknowledging the necessity of legal processes. They are prepared to fulfill any required documentation in relation to their request. A ruling from the judge regarding this case is anticipated on March 28.

In summary, the Dominican Republic has removed police surveillance from Joshua Riibe amid ongoing investigations into the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki. Although Riibe is no longer considered a suspect, the return of his passport will soon be finalized. Meanwhile, Konanki’s family is preparing for formalities surrounding her potential death declaration while emphasizing their faith in the investigative process. A judicial decision on this matter is expected at the end of the month.

Original Source: fox17.com