Investigation Update: Sudiksha Konanki’s Disappearance and Joshua…

Joshua Riibe, the last person seen with Sudiksha Konanki, insists he can’t be held any longer by Dominican authorities without charges. He remains under police surveillance despite not being officially named a suspect. Sudiksha, a University of Pittsburgh student, vanished after a night out with friends, and Riibe’s conflicting statements about the event raise further questions.

Joshua Riibe, the last person reported to have seen missing Indian-American student Sudiksha Konanki in the Dominican Republic, has told police he cannot be detained any longer. Riibe has been under custody for several days, undergoing repeated questioning but has not officially been charged or labeled a suspect. His lawyer, Beatriz Santana, has filed a motion arguing he should not be held without charges, as reported by the New York Times.

Despite the lack of charges, law enforcement has seized Riibe’s passport and restricted his freedom, requiring him to remain at a hotel under police oversight. Santana revealed to local media that although he has not been formally accused, Riibe cannot leave the hotel freely as his passport remains confiscated, inhibiting his ability to travel.

Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, was last seen on March 6 on a Punta Cana beach during a spring break trip with friends. Riibe, who was not originally part of the group, encountered them at the resort. After partying at a disco until 3 am, they moved to the beach, where surveillance footage shows their arrival at approximately 4:15 am.

By 5:50 am, the majority of her friends had departed, leaving Sudiksha with Riibe. Subsequent footage captures her engaging with Riibe at an outdoor bar before her disappearance. Notably, she appears to be unwell at one point, whereas Riibe is seen outside the bar, appearing intoxicated. The two are seen in matching outfits, but they did not interact in this footage.

Authorities have noted inconsistencies in Riibe’s statements regarding the events leading to Konanki’s disappearance. He has provided various accounts: claiming to have seen her in knee-deep water, stating he saw her walking along the shore before passing out, and alleging he assisted her in rough waters. These conflicting narratives have raised suspicions among investigators, complicating the inquiry into Konanki’s disappearance.

Joshua Riibe remains a focus in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki but is not currently charged with any crime. His conflicting statements and the circumstances surrounding the case have left authorities investigating his involvement. The situation emphasizes the complexities surrounding the legalities and procedures in cases of missing persons, particularly in foreign jurisdictions.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com