A fresh search operation has begun in Portugal in the long-running investigation into the disappearance of British toddler Madeleine McCann, who vanished more than 18 years ago.

German and Portuguese investigators are focusing on land surrounding a cottage previously linked to the only named suspect in the case, German national Christian Brueckner. The search, which began on June 3, is expected to last several days and involves dozens of officers from Germany’s federal police.

Details of the New Search
Search teams have been examining undergrowth, an abandoned building, and wooded areas near Lagos in the Algarve region, close to where Madeleine was last seen. Vehicles with both Portuguese and German license plates were observed at the cordoned-off site. Reports indicate investigators are using ground-penetrating radar capable of scanning up to 15 feet deep. The area includes wells, ditches, and the cottage where Brueckner once lived.

Authorities have not publicly disclosed specific new evidence that prompted the latest search.

Background of the Case
Madeleine McCann was three years old when she disappeared from her family’s holiday apartment in Praia da Luz on May 3, 2007, while her parents were dining nearby. The case generated intense global media coverage and remains one of the most high-profile missing persons investigations in modern history.

Christian Brueckner, currently serving a seven-year sentence in Germany for the 2005 rape of an American woman in Praia da Luz, has long been the primary suspect. A mobile phone registered in his name was traced near the McCanns’ accommodation on the night Madeleine vanished. German authorities stated in 2020 that they were convinced of his involvement, though he has never been charged in connection with her disappearance and has always denied any role.

Brueckner is due to complete his current sentence in September. He was previously acquitted in a separate German trial involving other sexual assault allegations.

Family’s Ongoing Determination
On the 18th anniversary of their daughter’s disappearance, Kate and Gerry McCann reaffirmed their commitment to finding answers. “The years appear to be passing even more quickly and whilst we have no significant news to share, our determination to ‘leave no stone unturned’ is unwavering,” they said in a statement.

A previous search of a nearby reservoir in 2023 yielded no significant findings. Investigators hope the current operation may uncover new evidence linking Brueckner to the case.

Main Sources: CBS News and AFP.