Cops behind Ria kidnapping

The woman is being seen as a “person of interest.” Reports too are that investigators strongly suspect a “police link” in the woman’s abduction.

Speaking with Newsday yesterday, a worried relative said they too had heard of the involvement of a police officer in the matter but couldn’t confirm if it was true.

He said, “At this point in time, we just wish that someone could call us and tell us they find back Ria. It is taking a toll on the family.” Newsday was told that doctors had to be called in last week to attend to a close female relative who has not been coping well with the situation.

Two Thursdays ago, Sookdeo was abducted after dropping off her two children to classes at the Picton Presbyterian Primary School, Picton located on the outskirts of Debe.

Police have been working round the clock but have been unable to crack the case. Sookdeo was driving her red Nissan X-Trail vehicle when a man dressed as a police officer exited a black Nissan X-Trail vehicle and pulled her out and placed her in his vehicle before speeding off. Two Sundays ago, officers of the San Fernando CID and Anti Kidnaping Unit visited a house at Rochard Road, Penal where they detained three persons including a police officer said to be on suspension and also impounded a black Nissan X-Trail which resembled the one seen in video footage obtained from surveillance cameras in the area. The suspects were released 24 hours later and the vehicle subsequently released to its owner.

Relatives said investigators continue to check all her friends and the woman was among those whose home she often visited.

Sookdeo’s friend has since deleted all photographs of both she and Sookdeo from her Facebook page. And even as prayers are being said nightly, relatives said the number of visitors to the family’s home at Wellington Road Debe is dwindling. Spiritual persons continue to tell the family that Sookdeo is alive “and being kept in a dark place” against her will.

“Right now is only persons very close to the family holding out with them,” he said..

Yesterday, police stated there were no new leads and the search continues for the missing woman.

Anyone with information can contact the nearest police station or Anti Kidnaping Unit.