Search for Missing University Student in Dominican Republic Enters Fourth Day
The search for Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student missing in the Dominican Republic, has entered its fourth day. Last seen on March 6, extensive search efforts involving land, sea, and air resources are underway. Authorities are exploring various possibilities regarding her disappearance, including potential foul play, as her family and friends remain hopeful for her safe return.
The search for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old junior from the University of Pittsburgh, continues as she remains missing in the Dominican Republic. Last seen on March 6, she disappeared while on a spring break trip with friends at the RIU hotel in Punta Cana. Dominican National Police noted that she was captured on surveillance footage entering the beach area at approximately 4:15 a.m., but did not return afterward.
An extensive search effort commenced on March 10, utilizing resources such as drones, helicopters, divers, boats, and canine units to locate Konanki by land, sea, and air. Authorities are conducting interviews with friends and witnesses present at the beach during her disappearance. The public prosecutor’s office is actively pursuing leads to ascertain the situation surrounding her absence.
RIU Hotels expressed their concern for Konanki’s disappearance, emphasizing their collaboration with local authorities to ensure a thorough search. They have established an internal communication system across their Punta Cana properties and conveyed their sympathies to her family.
Konanki’s parents have been informed and are traveling to the Dominican Republic, with authorities working diligently on the investigation. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia has reported that her family is looking into various possibilities, including abduction, as they double-check security footage and cellphone data for more information.
Authorities emphasized that all possibilities are on the table regarding the circumstances of her disappearance, ranging from accidental misfortune to potential foul play. The University of Pittsburgh is maintaining communication with her family to provide assistance, alongside support from the Indian Embassy due to Konanki’s dual citizenship.
As the search progresses, Konanki’s friends have remained in the Dominican Republic to support the efforts and await further developments. Virginia Rep. Suhas Subramanyam has been coordinating with federal and international agencies to mobilize resources for her safe return. Community prayers and efforts are ongoing in hopes of finding her soon.
The ongoing search for Sudiksha Konanki highlights a chilling case of a missing university student during a spring break trip. Authorities remain committed to exploring all angles, including potential foul play, as they mobilize extensive resources in the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, her family, friends, and community are united in their hopes for her safe return, with numerous supportive efforts underway both locally and internationally.
Original Source: www.nbcchicago.com
