Hotel blackout linked to Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance

Punta Cana.- Investigations into the disappearance of 20-year-old Indian tourist Sudiksha Konanki in Punta Cana have uncovered a key factor: a power outage at the Riu República Hotel during the early hours of March 6. The blackout, which lasted from March 5 to the following morning, disrupted lighting, security systems, and surveillance cameras, leaving large areas of the resort in darkness. Many guests, including Konanki, went to the beach, where security measures were ineffective.

The hotel confirmed the power failure and announced compensation for affected guests. During the outage, Konanki was last seen around 4:15 a.m. walking along the beach with American tourist Joshua Steven Ribe. Under normal circumstances, beach access at night is restricted, but the blackout left the area unsupervised.

Authorities suspect she may have been swept away by strong sea currents, possibly drifting toward the Macao area. The search continues using thermal drones, helicopters, boats, divers, and canine units, but only some personal belongings have been recovered so far.