Authorities in the Dominican Republic are currently conducting an extensive search for a 20-year-old student from the University of Pittsburgh, Sudiksha Konanki. She was last seen on Thursday at the beach of the Riu República Hotel in Punta Cana, as reported by the Dominican National Emergency System. Sudiksha, an Indian national, was in the Caribbean nation for spring break before commencing her pre-med studies.
Sudiksha’s father, Subbarayudu Konanki, expressed his deep concern and shared insights about his daughter with CNN. “My daughter is a very nice girl. She’s ambitious and wants to pursue a career in medicine,” he stated. According to her father, Sudiksha had informed her friends that she was heading to a party at the resort. “She went to the beach on March 6 early morning around 4 a.m. with friends and some other guys they met at the resort. After that, her friends returned, but my daughter did not come back,” he explained.
The alarm was raised when Sudiksha did not return to her room the following morning, prompting her friends to alert the authorities. “So far, multiple authorities in the Dominican Republic have searched in the waters using helicopters and other tools. They have also scoured the nearby bay, bushes, and trees,” Subbarayudu Konanki reported. Her friends officially reported her missing around 4 p.m. local time, approximately 12 hours after her last sighting.
The Riu hotel chain issued a statement expressing their sympathy towards the family and emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of their guests. The hotel staff is actively assisting authorities in the ongoing search for Sudiksha.
Sudiksha was accompanied by five other female students from the University of Pittsburgh. The sheriff’s office in Loudoun County, Virginia, where the family resides, confirmed their involvement and stated that they are collaborating with federal law enforcement and the US State Department. “The embassy of India in the Dominican Republic has taken the lead, coordinating efforts with our state department and local law enforcement,” the sheriff’s office noted.
The Dominican National Emergency System is spearheading the search efforts on the island. In collaboration with various agencies, including the Tourism Police, the Dominican Navy, and the National Police, specialized drone teams equipped with advanced technology have been deployed to conduct a thorough search along the coastal area of Bávaro.
As the search continues, Subbarayudu Konanki is urging local authorities to expand their investigation beyond the water. “They’re only looking in the water, but I want them to also investigate other possibilities, including whether this is a case of kidnapping or human trafficking,” he stated. His concerns stem from the belief that Sudiksha may not survive for an extended period in the water, prompting fears of foul play.
The US State Department has issued a level two travel advisory for the Dominican Republic, advising US citizens to exercise increased caution while visiting the country. The advisory highlights concerns regarding violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault. Travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and avoid displaying wealth.
The Konanki family, originally from India but permanent residents in the United States since 2006, have received support from both local and international entities. The Embassy of India stated on Facebook that it is “extending all assistance in coordination with government authorities of the Dominican Republic.” The University of Pittsburgh has also urged anyone with information regarding Sudiksha’s whereabouts to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the family during this challenging time.
