Major update in new search for Madeleine McCann

The new search for Madeleine McCann is set to be 'called off after three days'

Even though Madeleine went missing over 18 years ago, new evidence found in the home of prime suspect Christian Brueckner sparked fresh hope in the search for the missing Brit.

After discovering an unlicensed gun, ammunition, children's toys and bikes in one of the properties owned by Christian Brueckner, police confirmed a new search would begin between Praia da Luz and a house near the holiday resort where Brueckner used to reside.

However, the police were only granted permission to search until Friday.

After three days of not finding any substantial evidence, it is expected that the search will be called off if nothing is discovered today (5 June).

A source told The Sun: "There are currently no plans to extend and if the situation remains the same the search will end this evening.

"It’s very disappointing but nothing taken away from the search area so far has provided any clues."

The news doesn't come as much of a surprise as former Met Detective Chief Inspector Peter Kirkham had already warned the Mirror that the chance of a breakthrough is relatively small.

However, police were still hoping to uncover something substantial enough to finally be able to charge Brueckner in connection with Maddie's disappearance.

But as time goes on, it seems likely they will come up empty-handed after three days of digging in locations connected to the prime suspect.

Brueckner, who is currently incarcerated in Germany after being charged with rape of an elderly woman, is expected to be released later this year.

This makes the situation very time-sensitive for officials.

Consequently, it's important to make progress on the Madeleine McCann case before Brueckner walks a free man in September.