In the expanse of California, a 23-year-old Indian scholar has vanished, triggering a plea from authorities for public assistance. Nitheesha Kandula, a student enrolled at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), disappeared on May 28, as confirmed by Chief of Police John Guttierez. The enigma surrounding her whereabouts unfolded on May 30, prompting a concerted effort from law enforcement, including the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
“Dispatch: Concern mounts for Nitheesha Kandula’s welfare. Any intel, crucial or trivial, welcome. Reach out to @CSUSBNews or LAPD,” implored the CSUSB Police Department.
Described as standing 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with raven-black hair and eyes, Kandula’s last known location was Los Angeles. She possibly navigated a 2021 Toyota Corolla, its hue undisclosed.
Authorities beseech any with insights to come forward: “Connections to the CSUSB Police Department or LAPD’s Southwest Division hold promise,” asserted law enforcement.
This episode adds to a disconcerting series involving students within the Indian diaspora. Recent months have witnessed similar unsettling incidents: the vanishing of Rupesh Chandra Chintakind in Chicago, the tragic discovery of Mohammad Abdul Arfath’s lifeless body in Cleveland, and the fatal shooting of Amarnath Ghosh in St. Louis, Missouri. Additionally, the untimely demise of Sameer Kamath and Vivek Taneja, coupled with the chilling discovery of Akul Dhawan, further underscore the gravity of these occurrences.
Investigations remain ongoing, as authorities tirelessly seek resolution and solace for affected families.