Father of Missing Student Urges Broader Investigation in Dominican Republic

Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student in Punta Cana, has prompted her father to request an expanded investigation into her disappearance, which he believes could involve kidnapping or abduction. She was last seen at a beach on March 6, and search efforts are ongoing, considering both drowning and foul play as possibilities.

The father of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student who went missing while vacationing in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, has urged authorities to expand their investigation. Sudiksha was last observed at a beach near her resort shortly before dawn on March 6. Her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, expressed concerns that if she had drowned, her body would have likely washed ashore by now. He is advocating for investigations into possible kidnapping or abduction.

Civil Defense officials reported that search efforts are currently underway, involving drones, helicopters, and detection dogs to survey the waters near where she was last seen. Authorities presume she may have drowned based on accounts from a companion, although this is still subject to police investigation. It has been noted that bodies can take several days to surface in warmer waters.

Upon learning of her disappearance, Sudiksha’s parents, along with family friends, traveled to Punta Cana. A complaint was filed by Subbarayudu and a family friend, urging officials to broaden the inquiry, citing the unusual circumstances surrounding Sudiksha’s personal belongings, which were left with friends. Their appeal highlights the need to consider both an accidental drowning and the potential for foul play.

Sudiksha, originally from India and a permanent resident of the U.S., was in the Dominican Republic on spring break with five other female students. University officials have been in contact with her family and are collaborating with law enforcement to support the investigation into her disappearance.

The case of Sudiksha Konanki emphasizes the need for thorough investigations in missing persons cases, especially when unusual circumstances arise. Her father’s appeal for a broader inquiry into potential foul play is significant, as authorities continue their search in Punta Cana. Ongoing collaboration between the family, university, and law enforcement demonstrates the seriousness of the situation and the desire to find Sudiksha safely.

Original Source: www.bostonherald.com