Intensified Search for Missing US Student in Dominican Republic Following Key Witness Testimony

PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic — The search for U.S. college student Sudiksha Konanki intensified on March 17 after a man questioned by authorities visited the beach where she was last seen. The 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student disappeared before dawn on March 6 in Punta Cana, prompting officials to scour local waters amid concerns she may have drowned.

Sudiksha Konanki went missing during a visit to Punta Cana on March 6. She is an Indian citizen studying at the University of Pittsburgh. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her disappearance while conducting searches in nearby waters for any signs of her.

Joshua Riibe, a senior at St. Cloud University, has not been named as a suspect but is believed to be the last person with Konanki before she vanished. He stated that they were drinking and swimming when they were caught in strong tides. After managing to swim back to shore alone, he claimed he lost sight of her shortly thereafter.

• Konanki’s last known location: Punta Cana beach
• Date of disappearance: March 6
• Riibe’s account: They were together in waist-deep water

Riibe’s parents have expressed concerns about his treatment by Dominican authorities, alleging that he has been held without proper legal representation and subjected to repeated interrogations under duress. They have retained legal counsel to ensure his rights are protected amidst ongoing investigations into Konanki’s case.

The investigation into Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance continues as authorities seek more information regarding her last moments and the involvement of those present during the incident.