Indian Student Missing in Dominican Republic: Family Suspects Kidnapping

Dominican Republic : Authorities in the Dominican Republic, in collaboration with US federal agencies, have intensified their search for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, who mysteriously disappeared while on vacation in Punta Cana. Konanki, an Indian citizen and a permanent US resident, was last seen in the early hours of March 6 on a beach near her resort.

According to reports, Konanki and her friends had spent the night of March 5 at a nightclub before heading to the beach around 4 AM. Surveillance footage captured most of her friends returning to the hotel at 5:55 AM, but she remained on the beach with an unidentified man. The man later informed authorities that they had gone for a swim in the ocean when a strong wave pulled them in. He claimed that after making it back to shore, he vomited and fell asleep on a lounge chair, only to wake up and find Konanki missing. Surveillance footage also showed him returning to his hotel room alone at 9:55 AM.

Konanki’s family and friends have expressed concerns over conflicting accounts of events and are urging authorities for a thorough investigation. Some speculate that the strong currents in the Caribbean Sea could have played a role in her disappearance, but others believe that further probing is necessary. The US Embassy in the Dominican Republic is actively involved in the case, coordinating with local authorities.

The Dominican Republic’s National Police and Coast Guard have launched extensive search operations along the beachfront and surrounding areas, while drones and diving teams are scanning the ocean for any signs of Konanki. The FBI is also reportedly providing assistance in tracking down clues.

The incident has raised safety concerns for tourists, especially in beach destinations known for unpredictable ocean currents. Konanki’s disappearance has also drawn international attention, with officials under pressure to accelerate search efforts and ensure transparency in the investigation.

As authorities continue their efforts, Konanki’s family has appealed for any witnesses or individuals with information to come forward.