Search for Missing Student Stalls as Family Seeks Closure

In the Dominican Republic, the search for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old college student from the US, has been called off after nearly two weeks. Her parents have asked authorities to officially declare her dead, believing she drowned during a spring break trip to Punta Cana. This request comes as the last person seen with her, Joshua Steven Riibe, fights for his freedom in court. Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, was last seen on March 6. She and her friends were enjoying a night out at a hotel bar before heading to the beach. Riibe, a 22-year-old from Iowa, was with them. He claims that a strong wave swept them both out to sea. He managed to make it back to shore, but Konanki did not. Riibe's account has been met with skepticism, and he has been kept under police watch at a hotel, though not officially detained. His passport was confiscated, and he has been questioned multiple times. Riibe's legal team argues that his rights have been violated. They claim he has been held without charges and questioned without proper legal representation. A court hearing is set to decide on his habeas corpus petition, which seeks his release. Riibe has not been named a suspect in Konanki's disappearance, but his involvement in the last known moments of her life has put him under intense scrutiny. Konanki's parents, Subbarayudu and SreeDevi Konanki, have expressed their belief that their daughter drowned. They hope that an official declaration of her death will allow them to begin the grieving process and address practical matters related to her absence. The family lives in Loudoun County, Virginia, where the local sheriff has been supportive of the investigation. The sheriff's office has reviewed the evidence and found no inconsistencies in Riibe's statements. The search for Konanki has been extensive, with drones and search teams scouring the beach and surrounding areas. Her cover-up was found on a lounge chair, but there were no signs of struggle or foul play. This incident highlights the dangers of strong currents at Punta Cana's Arena Gorda beach, where four tourists drowned just two months prior. The beach is known for its powerful waves, which can catch even experienced swimmers off guard. The search for Konanki is a stark reminder of the risks associated with beach activities and the importance of water safety.