the three-day operation near Praia da Luz, Portugal, police found clothing, bone fragments, and two firearms. These items are now being sent for forensic testing in Germany.

The search focused on a remote area linked to suspect Christian Brueckner, who is serving time for a 2005 rape near where Madeleine disappeared in 2007. Brueckner denies involvement, but remains the lead suspect. Prosecutors hope new evidence could help keep him in custody beyond his expected release in September 2025.

Photos from the search show police using heavy machinery and radar to scan the site. A recent documentary revealed disturbing items found in Brueckner’s former hideout, but without forensic proof, prosecutors face challenges.