Madeleine McCann: Portuguese Investigators Assess New Search Findings

Portuguese investigators have categorically stated that no samples have been sent back to Germany following last week’s Madeleine McCann searches.

Sources in Portugal firmly denied reports of German police retrieving bone or clothing fragments, insisting that material analysis is being conducted domestically. While acknowledging the discovery of objects, including two guns, investigators predict these findings will likely be unrelated to the McCann investigation.

Portuguese police have issued a new update after reports of finds during last week’s search(Image: PA)

A Portuguese investigator, speaking anonymously, described the recovered guns as “very old and rusty, almost archaeological artifacts.” Another insider revealed that one weapon has already been dismissed as irrelevant to the ongoing probe, with a separate investigation exploring its origin.

Forensic analysis of potential animal bones and clothing fragments will occur at a Lisbon police scientific laboratory, with results subsequently shared with German prosecutors. German forensic officers were invited to observe the testing, though their attendance remains unconfirmed.

A fresh search in the Madeleine McCann case wrapped up last Thursday. Credit: Alamy

Portuguese authorities maintain that the recent search operations are unlikely to yield significant connections to suspect Christian Brueckner. While Brueckner remains a person of interest in both Portuguese and German investigations, he has not been formally charged.

The three-day search concluded near Brueckner’s former cottage close to Praia da Luz, where Madeleine vanished on May 3, 2007. The operation spanned 120 acres, inspecting wells, ruins, and water tanks across multiple private properties.

Madeleine McCann vanished on May 3, 2007. Credit: Alamy

German prosecutors declined to comment on the search results, merely expressing appreciation for the cooperative efforts between Portuguese and German law enforcement.

Luis Neves, National Director of the Policia Judiciaria, emphasized that the search was not futile, suggesting that “doors are being closed” in the investigation.

Christian Brueckner has denied any involvement in Madeleine McCann’s disappearance. Credit: Alamy

This operation follows previous searches, including a 2020 well investigation and 2014 Metropolitan Police excavations, which similarly failed to produce conclusive evidence.

Brueckner, currently imprisoned for rape, is set to be released in September unless charged in connection with Madeleine’s disappearance. His lawyer noted he must first settle 1,500 in outstanding motor offense fines.

Notably, Portuguese media recently reported German authorities’ rejection of an investigation into a British-German couple potentially involved in a drink-drive incident related to Madeleine’s case.

The investigation continues with multiple international law enforcement agencies maintaining active interest in resolving this long-standing mystery.

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