Family of Missing Pitt Student Fears Possible Kidnapping in Dominican Republic

Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student, may have been kidnapped, according to her family. Although authorities initially suggested drowning, a complaint filed by the family calls for an investigation into foul play. Sudiksha left for a beach party but did not return, leaving her belongings with friends. Search efforts are ongoing, with assistance from various agencies, including the FBI.
The family of Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student, is increasingly concerned that she may have been kidnapped in the Dominican Republic. Authorities initially suggested that the 20-year-old pre-med student’s disappearance could be due to drowning after she jumped into the ocean on spring break at Riu Republic Resort in Punta Cana. However, a formal complaint urges a deeper investigation into the possibility of foul play or abduction.
Subbarayudu Konanki, the father of the missing student, stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “It’s four days, and if she was in water, she would likely have been strewn to shore.” He and his wife traveled from Virginia to Punta Cana to investigate further. The complaint highlights that Sudiksha’s belongings, including her phone and wallet, were left with her friends—a departure from her usual behavior.
At approximately 4 a.m., Sudiksha left for a beach party with some friends and reportedly did not return, raising alarms when her friends returned without her. Surveillance footage captured her presence near the beach shortly before her disappearance. Her friends reported her as missing around 4 p.m. the same day after failing to find her in their room.
Search efforts, which included helicopters and ground explorations of local terrain, have been conducted, yet her whereabouts remain unknown. Local agencies, in conjunction with the FBI and other organizations, are actively participating in the investigation alongside the Dominican police. The University of Pittsburgh is also working with Konanki’s family as they navigate this distressing situation.
Sudiksha Konanki’s family remains hopeful for her safe return amid rising concerns of potential abduction. Despite initial speculation of drowning, their push for a comprehensive investigation into her disappearance underscores the urgency of the situation. Coordinated efforts by local authorities and international agencies highlight their commitment to finding her as they continue the search for clarity in this troubling case.
Original Source: nypost.com