VISAKHAPATNAM: Mystery over missing Aditi deepens as there is no clue of her whereabouts despite massive search operations by five departments even on day four here Monday. With the suggestion of C Srinivas, Aditi’s father, the GVMC authorities have started searching the canal after blocking the drain at some places in the city.
The Navy officials, who took part in the massive search with two choppers, two ships, Gemini boats and deep sea divers called off the search Monday morning. However, fishermen, police and firemen continued to scour the seas.
Initially the GVMC staff stopped the drain water by placing sand bags at the Isukathota junction, the second major canal from the HB Colony and the sanitary staff started their search till the Chakaligedda area of Lawson’s Bay beach.
“The Navy officials said that the body might not have surfaced as Aditi could not be traced even after continuous massive search. So the GVMC is now taking the drain operation,” said GVMC zonal commissioner II Nallanayya.
Meanwhile, the family members of Aditi, suspect that their child might have been rescued by someone, who may be expecting money.
Srinivas said that he was speculating if his daughter might have been rescued and kept under custody. “Even after massive search by hundreds of people, including Navy and experienced fishermen, there is no sign of Aditi. I suspect she might have been rescued by someone, and they could have kept her in their custody expecting some money. I haven’t received any call yet. I will give money as reward for any information on Aditi,” said Srinivas and added, “I have also spoken to DCP CM Trivikrama Varma about my suspicion and the police are investigating from all angles.” According to the family, Aditi used to go to school and tuition by their friend’s car. Her friend is a class VIII student of the same school, and also known well to Aditi’s family. Raghunadh is the car driver. Unlike speculated earlier, sources confirmed that Aditi’s friend was the only eyewitness. She saw Aditi slipping into the drain while the driver was facing the other side. Police have also spoken to the girl, who reportedly said she had seen Aditi slipping into the drain. Raghunadh was also interrogated.
Appeal on Facebook
Concerned over missing six-year-old Aditi, not only Vizagites, but also people from various parts of the State are hoping that she returns safe. They are using social media to express their wishes for her safe return. A page has also been created on Facebook - ‘Finding Aditi-Missing in Visakhapatnam since September 24’ - where the close ones of Aditi have been posting by giving contact numbers and e-mail IDs to approach them if they know of her whereabouts. Youngsters in a large number are supporting the community page in the hopes of finding any information relating to the little girl.