Funny money in Ria abduction

Sources said a bank account of one of Ria’s close connections is now the focus of attention by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit who are exploring the possibility this person may be involved in the drug trade and could assist officers in their investigation. Financial records obtained by police point to this person being in possession of unexplained large sums of cash. The owner of the money was among persons interviewed following Sookdeo’s abduction, but at the time, was not viewed as a suspect having expressed to police an inability to understand why Ria was abducted in the first place.

With the latest information, officers believe the abduction may be linked to sinister dealings by this person who owns large sums of money. Ria’s relatives had suggested that she was a victim of human trafficking but the investigation has taken a new turn with the latest information. Distraught relatives are asking police to find and question one of their own in connection with Ria’s disappearance.

Two weeks ago, Sookdeo was snatched shortly after dropping off her children to school. A ‘police link’ is one of several leads being pursued by investigators.

“Find him and check him out too,” said a concerned relative.

“We are doing our own investigations too and have learnt that this officer, who she knew since she was going to school, was stalking her for two years now. He knew she was married but wanted to hear none of it. He would often harass her on her phone (mobile) and used to drive up and down in front her parents’ house when she was there. We feel he could help.” One of Sookdeo’s best friends and a client, who relatives said often “wined and dined” the young hairdresser with trips abroad and fine dining, has since left the country. Four days after she was abducted, officers went to a house at Rochard Road, Penal, where they impounded a vehicle and detained three people including a police officer said to be on suspension. The three were subsequently released pending investigations and the vehicle returned to its owner.

Exploring all means to find her, relatives have resorted to spiritual leaders of different faiths who have told them Sookdeo is alive.

But as the trail grows colder as time passes, a relative said the news has not been the best lately.

Yesterday, marked 14 days since the hairdresser disappeared.

Some relatives have even told Newsday that Ria, 34, has been visiting them in their dreams but is unable to give her exact location.

“We wish she could tell us exactly where they have her because all we want is for her to come home,” a relative cried.