Ex-detective criticizes 'languishing' Met Police team investigating Madeleine McCann case

The Metropolitan Police team working on the Madeleine McCann case has been criticized for not doing enough. A former detective said they are struggling to show why they are needed. The team has only four members and is part-time. They are not leading the investigation, as the Portuguese and German authorities are more involved. The team's funding is mainly to keep Madeleine's parents happy, which has caused frustration among the public. The number of police working on the case has been reduced over the years. Currently, there is one detective chief inspector, two detective constables, and one police staff member on the team. The team also works on other cases besides Madeleine's disappearance. Madeleine's parents are still searching for her, and they appreciate the support. The prime suspect in Madeleine's disappearance, Christian Brueckner, expressed interest in fostering children, particularly little girls. He had plans to take in children and receive payment from the state for being a foster parent. Brueckner is currently on trial for other crimes, including rape and sexual assault. Despite the reduced resources, private investigator Julian Peribañez is returning to the place where Madeleine disappeared to look for new leads. The British investigation continues to support Madeleine's family and understand what happened on the night she went missing. Madeleine McCann went missing in 2007 while on holiday with her family in Portugal.