British police are seeking to bring a German suspect to trial in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, as investigators step up efforts ahead of the 20th anniversary of her case next year.
Detectives from London’s Metropolitan Police are working to build a case against Christian Brueckner, 48, with the aim of securing charges related to abduction and murder. Officials say they believe sufficient evidence could be gathered for prosecutors to proceed.
Senior officers are leading a push to bring the suspect to trial in the United Kingdom, potentially at London’s Old Bailey. However, legal obstacles remain, including Germany’s constitutional ban on extraditing its citizens to countries outside the European Union.
The restriction could prevent German authorities from handing over Brueckner, raising the prospect of legal and diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
British officials have indicated that if extradition is not possible, efforts will continue to ensure the suspect faces justice either in Germany or in Portugal, where the alleged crime took place.
Madeleine McCann was three years old when she disappeared from a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal, on May 3, 2007. Despite one of the largest international search efforts, she has never been found.
Brueckner, who lived near the resort at the time, was identified as a prime suspect by German authorities in 2020. He has denied any involvement.
The Metropolitan Police investigation remains officially a missing persons case, but a specialist team has been compiling evidence for the Crown Prosecution Service related to more serious charges.
A police source said investigators were determined to pursue “every available avenue” to achieve justice, noting the significance of the upcoming anniversary.
Under post-Brexit arrangements, the United Kingdom and Germany cooperate on extradition through the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement. However, Germany applies a “nationality bar,” rooted in its constitution, which prevents the extradition of its own citizens to non-EU countries.
Legal experts say this barrier cannot be waived, regardless of the seriousness of the alleged crime. One possible route could involve sharing evidence with Portuguese authorities, who may pursue prosecution within the EU’s legal framework.
British police have been working closely with counterparts in Germany and Portugal as part of a long-running investigation known as Operation Grange, launched in 2011. The inquiry has cost more than £13 million and continues to examine new leads.
Meanwhile, Madeleine’s parents, Kate McCann and Gerry McCann, marked the 19th anniversary of their daughter’s disappearance, reiterating their determination to find answers and secure justice.
German prosecutors have previously said they are confident Brueckner was responsible for Madeleine’s death, citing what they describe as strong but largely circumstantial evidence. However, no charges have been brought in connection with the case.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, with no clear timeline for its conclusion.
