Authorities in the Dominican Republic have detained an American man in connection with the disappearance of 21-year-old Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student who has been missing for nearly two weeks. Konanki was last seen walking toward the ocean near her hotel in Punta Cana with 24-year-old Joshua Riibe. Investigators have since confiscated Riibe’s passport, and his lawyer confirms that he is not permitted to leave his hotel without authorization.
Dominican police are treating Riibe as a witness to a possible drowning. He was seen yesterday walking along the beach with investigators in the area where Konanki reportedly vanished. In an interview obtained by NBC News, Riibe stated that he and Konanki entered the water together, wading in waist-deep before being caught by a wave. According to Riibe, he managed to make it back to shore but lost sight of Konanki.
Authorities are continuing search efforts along the coastline and surrounding waters. Divers and rescue teams have been deployed, though no physical evidence confirming Konanki’s whereabouts has been found. Officials have not ruled out any possibilities, including accidental drowning or foul play.
Konanki, a biomedical engineering student at the University of Pittsburgh, was visiting the Dominican Republic for a vacation. Her family has traveled to the Caribbean nation to assist in the search and has urged U.S. officials to intervene in the investigation. Friends and classmates have started a social media campaign to spread awareness about her disappearance.
Riibe has not been formally charged with any crime but remains under close supervision. Authorities continue to interview witnesses and review surveillance footage from the hotel and nearby businesses. While Dominican officials have not disclosed whether they suspect foul play, they emphasize that the case remains open and active.
The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic has acknowledged Konanki’s disappearance and is working with local authorities. Officials advise that the investigation is ongoing and urge anyone with information to come forward.
Sources:
- NBC News
- U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic
- Dominican Republic National Police
- Local media reports
