FBI Joins Search for Missing Indian-Origin Student Sudiksha Konanki in Dominican Republic

The FBI has joined the search for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old Indian-origin student from the University of Pittsburgh, missing since March 6 in Punta Cana. She disappeared from a beach after a power outage while on spring break. The Dominican President is overseeing search efforts, and her family is calling for intensified investigation as speculation about drowning or kidnapping arises.

The FBI has commenced a search operation for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old Indian-origin student from the University of Pittsburgh, who went missing last week during her spring break in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Konanki was last seen on the morning of March 6, disappearing from a beach adjacent to the Riu Republica Hotel, as reported by authorities and the Associated Press.

In the wake of her disappearance, investigations have intensified, with authorities now re-interviewing individuals who were with her at the time. Notably, the hotel reported that a power outage led many guests to the beach, which is when she vanished. Konanki was reportedly with friends when she disappeared under unclear circumstances.

Dominican President Luis Abinader has expressed deep concern regarding Konanki’s case, stating that various government agencies are actively engaged in search efforts. He mentioned, “All government agencies are searching because the latest information we have from one of them, from the last person who was with the young woman, what he says according to the reports is that a wave, while on the beach, crashed into them.”

Sudiksha Konanki, an Indian citizen and United States permanent resident hailing from Chantilly, Virginia, was traveling with five other female students at the time of her disappearance. Her parents have arrived in Punta Cana to assist in the investigation and have urged for heightened efforts in the search.

Authorities have speculated that Konanki may have drowned after entering the ocean, although the possibility of kidnapping has been raised by her father amidst ongoing concerns. Despite extensive search efforts involving helicopters, drones, boats, and scuba divers, no trace of Konanki has been found thus far.

The investigation into Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance underscores the urgency and complexity surrounding her case. While the FBI participates alongside Dominican authorities, her family’s concerns about possible kidnapping add an alarming dimension to the situation. The search continues as efforts intensify to locate the missing student.

Original Source: www.indiatoday.in