Joshua Riibe Speaks Out as Person of Interest in Sudiksha Konanki Disappearance
Joshua Riibe, a person of interest in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki in the Dominican Republic, has shared his account of the events surrounding her disappearance. Authorities continue to investigate, treating the case primarily as an accident while maintaining close scrutiny on Riibe’s situation. His family has expressed concerns about his detainment, while government officials reassure about tourist safety in the region.
Joshua Riibe, identified as a person of interest in the case of missing tourist Sudiksha Konanki, has recently spoken out following the seizure of his passport by authorities. Konanki, a biology student, vanished on March 6 in the Dominican Republic. Surveillance footage captured the two leaving a building arm-in-arm, with Riibe, a Minnesota university student, now confined to the hotel where they were last seen together. He is escorted by police at all times and is not permitted to leave the resort.
In an interview dated March 12, Riibe recounted spending time with Konanki on the beach, describing how a large wave swept them both into the ocean. “I kept trying to get her to breathe,” he indicated, acknowledging the challenges he faced as both struggled against the water. He detailed his efforts to return to shore safely with her, stating, “It took me a long time to get her out; it was difficult.”
Upon reaching the beach, Riibe reported that Konanki appeared to be walking knee-deep in water. He claimed that after he recuperated from swallowing sea water, he searched for her, assuming she had left after failing to see her on the beach.
Dominican authorities confirmed that Riibe remains in custody while the investigation continues, with ongoing interrogations by the National Police’s Gender Violence Unit. Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation regarding Konanki’s disappearance and pledged comprehensive efforts to address the situation.
Riibe’s family expressed concern over his treatment, stating he has been held under irregular conditions and has cooperated fully with the investigation. They emphasized his good character and dedication to his community. Additionally, they requested that due process be followed as they seek transparency and fairness in handling the case.
Dominican President Luis Abinader indicated that they are treating the case as an accident, noting the efforts of government agencies to search for the missing woman. He reassured the public about tourist safety in the Dominican Republic, highlighting the low incidence of issues for the 11 million annual visitors. The Riu Hotels chain also expressed deep concern regarding Konanki’s disappearance and reaffirmed their commitment to assisting authorities in the investigation.
The case of Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance remains a tense and complex situation as authorities focus on investigating the circumstances surrounding her last known whereabouts. Joshua Riibe, identified as a person of interest, has provided authorities with his account of events while being held under police surveillance. The investigation continues to develop, with a strong emphasis on ensuring proper procedures and care for all parties involved as the search for Konanki intensifies.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
