Interpol Issues Global Alert For Missing Student Sudiksha

Photo: Facebook

India-West News Desk

RICHMOND, VA – Authorities have issued an international alert for Sudiksha Konanki, the 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student who went missing in the Dominican Republic on March 6, during a spring break trip.

Interpol issued a Yellow Notice at the request of the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia, where Konanki’s family lives. The Dominican Republic National Police, in collaboration with the US Department of State, FBI, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, and University of Pittsburgh Police, is leading the investigation. Two Loudoun County detectives are also assisting on the ground.

Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso stated that all investigative avenues, including accidental and intentional causes, are being explored. Authorities have deployed drones, helicopters, divers, boats, canine units, and ground personnel to search for Konanki.

Timeline

On March 6 video evidence showed Konanki and a man identified as Joshua Riibe returning from the beach.

Riibe, a senior at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, told authorities that he and Konanki entered the ocean, but he left the water feeling sick, passed out on a beach chair, and later woke up to find her missing. Some of her belongings were discovered on a nearby beach chair.

Family Concerns

Konanki’s father, Subbarayudu Konanki, has urged authorities to explore alternative theories beyond drowning, including potential foul play or kidnapping.