British authorities are increasing efforts to bring prime suspect Christian Brueckner, 48, to trial in the United Kingdom over the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, the three-year-old who vanished in Portugal in 2007 while on holiday with her family. Scotland Yard has said it is working with the Crown Prosecution Service to gather evidence with the aim of charging Brueckner in connection with the case, and wants him to stand trial at London’s Old Bailey, as the twentieth anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance approaches.

Madeleine, from Rothley in Leicestershire, was reported missing from her holiday apartment in Praia da Luz on 3 May 2007, sparking one of the most high profile missing persons investigations in modern history.‍

Although German authorities named Brueckner as the prime suspect in June 2020, he has never been charged in relation to her disappearance, and denies any involvement.

Lawyers and investigators have taken the rare step of pursuing a criminal prosecution outside the country where the alleged crime took place, citing legal provisions that allow British courts to prosecute offences committed overseas under certain circumstances. UK police believe that evidence now available could justify bringing formal charges, despite hurdles in securing extradition from Germany.

A senior Metropolitan Police officer said,

“We believe we can gather a case that will withstand scrutiny and allow the Crown Prosecution Service to authorise charges in this jurisdiction.”

The officer’s comments underline how UK authorities are hoping to overcome legal complexities by working collaboratively with international partners to pursue justice in a British courtroom.

However, Brueckner’s status as a German national presents a legal challenge, because Germany’s constitution generally prohibits the extradition of its citizens to countries outside the European Union, such as the UK following Brexit, meaning Berlin could refuse a request to send him to Britain. British officials are said to be exploring all available routes, including prosecuting him in other jurisdictions if extradition is blocked.

The McCann family have previously said they appreciate the continued efforts by police and prosecutors in the UK and abroad, and remain determined to seek accountability and answers about what happened to their daughter. Investigators have insisted the inquiry remains active, and that they will pursue any credible line of inquiry that could bring clarity to the long running mystery.