British authorities are investigating the potential for legal action against the main suspect in the Madeleine McCann case. The Metropolitan Police disclosed that they had sent a formal request to 49-year-old German citizen Christian Brueckner for an interview, which he declined. Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley stated that the investigation into Madeleine’s disappearance in Portugal in 2007 remains a missing person inquiry.

Sir Mark mentioned that the police are reassessing both the German and Portuguese investigations following Brueckner’s release from prison. He emphasized that Brueckner is still considered a suspect, and they are evaluating the possibilities, including the potential for extradition to the UK.

German authorities were commended for their efforts in the case, with Sir Mark highlighting their diligence. Brueckner, who had previously denied involvement in Madeleine’s disappearance, was serving a prison sentence for a separate crime before his recent release.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cranwell reiterated the commitment to exploring all leads in the investigation, despite the refusal of an interview with Brueckner. The ongoing collaborative efforts between UK, German, and Portuguese law enforcement have led to various search operations over the years, with the most recent one near Lagos, Portugal.

Brueckner’s presence in the Praia da Luz area and his activities there have been under scrutiny, including his legal issues in Germany and Portugal. The Met’s Operation Grange, initiated in 2011, has incurred significant costs, with additional funding secured recently for the investigation.

The judge’s decision to clear Brueckner of previous allegations due to insufficient evidence and unreliable witnesses has added complexity to the case. The investigation continues, with authorities committed to pursuing all avenues to uncover the truth behind Madeleine McCann’s disappearance.