Indian-Origin US Student Missing in Dominican Republic
Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old Indian-origin student from the University of Pittsburgh, has mysteriously disappeared during a spring break trip to the Dominican Republic. The incident occurred in the popular tourist destination of Punta Cana, where Konanki was reportedly vacationing with a group of classmates.
Authorities were first alerted to Konanki’s disappearance on Thursday evening, when she failed to return after walking along the beach near her resort. She was last seen wearing a brown bikini, according to local officials.
Local Authorities Initiate Extensive Search Operations
Following her reported disappearance, officials in Punta Cana swiftly launched a search operation. The local search and rescue team, Defensa Civil, initiated the efforts, combing the area extensively. However, despite their immediate response, search activities conducted on Saturday evening had to be halted around 8 p.m. due to unfavorable conditions. The search resumed subsequently, but as of now, authorities have found no trace of the young student.
The search team described Konanki as wearing distinctive jewelry, including large round earrings, a designer metal anklet on her right leg, and multiple bracelets—yellow and steel bracelets on her right hand, and a multicolored beaded bracelet on her left.
Response from University and Community
The University of Pittsburgh, where Konanki is enrolled, has publicly responded to her disappearance, confirming awareness of the situation and expressing support for the ongoing search efforts. In an official statement, university officials indicated their active involvement, saying they were “working with Ms Konanki’s family” and maintaining communication with relevant authorities.
“Our office was contacted on Thursday evening about a missing female from Loudoun County who was with a group of other people traveling in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana specifically,” a spokesperson from Loudoun County confirmed.
Background and Concerns
Konanki, 20, hails from Loudoun County, Virginia, and is currently pursuing her education at the University of Pittsburgh. Before enrolling at the university, she resided in Virginia and had attended high school in Loudoun County. The university administration has assured continuous coordination with the local authorities and expressed deep concern over her wellbeing.
This incident has raised considerable concern among her family, friends, and the Indian community residing in the US. With each passing hour, concern for her safety has intensified, drawing increased attention from both US and Dominican authorities.
Search Temporarily Suspended, to Resume Soon
On Saturday evening, Defensa Civil—the Dominican Republic’s search and rescue team—initiated efforts to find the student. However, they had to pause operations around 8 pm due to challenging conditions. Authorities intend to resume their search at first light, expanding their efforts both along the coast and offshore.
Dominican officials confirmed that their teams remain committed to the operation, hopeful of locating Konanki safe and sound.
As the search continues, the University of Pittsburgh community, Konanki’s family, and local officials await any developments with hope and apprehension. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information that might assist in locating the missing student.
Also see:
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EU Unveils €800 Billion Plan to Strengthen Defence
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