Madeleine case could be closed

[21 July 2008]

Portugal's attorney general is due to make a statement, which could say that the Madeleine McCann case will be closed.

Fernando Jose Pinto Monteiro has said he will be announcing a 'solution' to the police investigation. If the case is closed, Madeleine's parents and Robert Murat, could have their status as official suspects ended. The Portuguese media have suggested that the investigation, which began 14-months ago when Madeleine disappeared, would be closed due to a lack of evidence. If the case is shelved, the McCanns will also gain access to police papers, which they want to give to private investigators to continue the search for their daughter.

A book by the former head of the investigation, Goncalo Amaral, will also be published on Thursday. The book reportedly contains allegations that Madeleine died accidentally while in her parents' care, and they disposed of the body to cover up her death. Amaral authorised the naming of the McCanns as official suspects, and he is also rumoured to be the source of 'leaks' from the police inquiry. These leaks stopped when he was removed from the case in October.

To read the full story, visit the BBC News website or the Daily Mail website.

Please note: Crimestoppers is not responsible for the content on external websites.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity and not part of the police. If you wish to pass on information about crime anonymously, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or fill out our anonymous online Giving Information Form.