Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, disappeared from the RIU Republica Resort in the Dominican Republic amid a lengthy power outage. Her last sighting was on the beach after 4 a.m. on March 6, shortly after electricity was restored. Guests expressed safety concerns regarding the blackout and inadequate beach lighting, prompting a police investigation. Authorities urge caution against speculation while ongoing searches continue.
The disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, has raised alarm following a lengthy power outage at the RIU Republica Resort in the Dominican Republic, where she was last seen. Konanki was reportedly last spotted on the beach after 4 a.m. on March 6, shortly after power was restored following a 22-hour outage. The resort management stated that the outage and her disappearance were unrelated, despite guests expressing safety concerns.
Guests at the resort noted frequent service disruptions, with some complaints highlighting daily challenges associated with water and power outages in the region. The Dominican Republic currently holds a Level 2 travel advisory, suggesting caution for travelers. In a statement, RIU Hotels expressed its commitment to guest comfort and acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the outage, vowing compensation to affected guests.
Witness accounts indicate that Konanki was seen walking with a male companion prior to her disappearance. The national police force is investigating the incident, and the local sheriff’s office has designated a person of interest. Additionally, guests reported safety issues, including inadequate lighting on the beach during the outage, leading to concerns about visibility and personal safety at night.
Reports from travelers described discomfort with the lack of amenities during the outage, including relying on bottled water and limited access to charging stations. Surveillance video and interviews with individuals who interacted with Konanki are part of the ongoing investigation by the FBI and local law enforcement, who have filed for a Yellow Notice through INTERPOL.
Authorities emphasize cautious speculation about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance, reiterating the importance of a thorough investigation. They urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the search for Sudiksha Konanki.
The case of Sudiksha Konanki highlights critical concerns regarding safety in resort areas characterized by power outages and communication issues. Efforts from law enforcement continue as they seek to uncover the circumstances of her disappearance while keeping public speculation at bay. The resort’s management has acknowledged the challenges faced by guests, vowing to provide compensation while prioritizing their safety and comfort. Overall, this incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in travel, particularly in areas with known infrastructure issues.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
