Madeleine McCann cops in Portugal are ‘probing NEW suspect’ as new clue offers hope for missing youngster
PORTUGUESE police probing the disappearance of Madeleine McCann have a new kidnap suspect, it has been sensationally claimed.
Detectives investigating the 12-year-old mystery have been given extra resources to look at a “new clue” and “new suspect”, reported Portuguese daily Correio da Manha.
“Police are following new Maddie kidnap clues,” the tabloid stated today.
“More inspectors are advancing with an investigation into a new suspect.
"A new clue and a new suspect, which the PJ (Policia Judiciaria) are trying to keep an absolute secret, has led to new resources being put in place to investigate the little girl’s whereabouts."
Prosecutors have reportedly refused to reveal any more details as they said the new probe was now "active."
Police in Porto are now said to be looking into the credibility of the new information.
The paper said the new line of inquiry did not focus on the McCanns who were briefly made arguidos - official suspects - in 2007 before that status was removed.
The paper also claimed: “Portuguese police admit to being nearer to knowing what happened to Madeleine McCann”.
However it added the authorities had “many doubts” she was still alive.
There was no immediate official response in Portugal to today’s report, which coincides with the 12th anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance.
Today's news comes as the youngster's parents vowed to carry on looking for their daughter "for as long as it takes".
"As much as we'd like to fast forward the first couple of weeks of May, there's no getting around it.
"The months and years roll by too quickly; Madeleine will be 16 this month. It’s impossible to put into words just how that makes us feel.
"There is comfort and reassurance though in knowing that the investigation continues and many people around the world remain vigilant.
"Thank you to everyone who continues to support us and for your ongoing hope and belief."
Three-year-old Madeleine McCann vanished during a family holiday in Praia da Luz, Portugal, in May 2007.
She had been left sleeping alone with her younger twin siblings while her parents were dining in a nearby tapas restaurant with pals at the seaside complex.
Yesterday it was revealed Scotland Yard has asked for more funding as it continues to follow up leads in the disappearance.
British police launched their own investigation, Operation Grange, in 2013 after a Portuguese inquiry failed to make progress.
Force bosses have been applying for funding from the Home Office every six months to continue the inquiry, which has cost about £11.75 million.
Last November, a further £150,000 was granted and Maddie's parents told of their delight at being given fresh hope.