Concerns Rise as Iowa Student’s Passport Confiscated in Missing Person Case
Authorities in the Dominican Republic have detained Joshua Riibe, a person of interest in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a college student. Riibe is barred from leaving the hotel and faces irregular questioning, despite claims of his willingness to cooperate. The community supports Riibe as both families deal with the situation.
In the Dominican Republic, authorities have confiscated the passport of 22-year-old Joshua Riibe, a person of interest in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old college student. Riibe, originally from Rock Rapids, Iowa, and a student at St. Cloud State University, is currently confined to his hotel with police escort. He last saw Konanki on March 6, before she went missing during a spring break trip with friends.
Riibe has been subjected to extensive questioning; however, officials from the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office clarified that the investigation is not criminal, and he is not considered a suspect. Konanki, a student at the University of Pittsburgh, was last seen with Riibe on the beach. Surveillance footage indicated that while her friends left the beach, she remained with him and he departed hours later alone.
According to the Riibe family, he is “deeply dismayed” by the circumstances surrounding Konanki’s disappearance, expressing their support to her family. They stated, “We express our deep sorrow and solidarity with the family of Sudiksha Konanki during this painful time.” They emphasized that despite Riibe’s willingness to cooperate, he faces irregular detention conditions without proper legal support.
The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office released a statement from Riibe’s friends, affirming community support: “The Rock Rapids community stands behind and supports Joshua Riibe and his family.” The statement highlighted Riibe’s character, noting his devotion to faith and kindness.
During interviews, Riibe mentioned that he and Konanki had been in the ocean and struggled against a wave that pulled them farther out. He claimed to have tried to assist her back to safety, stating, “I was trying to make sure that she could breathe the entire time.” Meanwhile, the Hotel Riu Republica, where Konanki was staying, had experienced a power outage before her disappearance but had restored electricity prior to the event.
In summary, the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki has led to significant concern and investigation in the Dominican Republic. Joshua Riibe, while not a suspect, is being closely monitored after being the last person seen with her. The situation raises critical questions about the treatment of Riibe during the investigation and highlights the community’s support as both families navigate this distressing ordeal.
Original Source: www.desmoinesregister.com
