MADDIE: SHOCK NEW MOBILE CLUE
POLICE last night claimed a breakthrough in the Madeleine McCann case, thanks to shocking mobile phone evidence.
Detectives have been studying records of conversations between parents Kate and Gerry, both 39, and their holiday dinner pals – the so-called Tapas Seven.
They have been using satellite technology to pinpoint the precise locations of callers around the time Madeleine disappeared.
And forensic experts are now said to be examining a blood-stained towel found close to a disused barn at a remote location some distance from Praia da Luz.
Last night sources close to the investigation said the analysis had led to a “big development”.
Sources said detectives are focusing on an alleged conversation between heart consultant Gerry and holiday pal Dr Russell O’Brien, 36.
Gerry insisted he was within 4km of Praia da Luz when the pair talked on June 10, but it is alleged technicians have discovered he made the call 28km from the resort.
The pair are due to be quizzed about the alleged discrepancy next week.
Portuguese paper Correio da Manha said the mobile phone data was at the top of the agenda when Portuguese forensic experts met British police in Leicester last week. Its report said: “The records of the McCanns’ telephone calls on days before and after the disappearance were discussed.’’
Former Surrey Police detective Mark Williams-Thomas, who has closely followed the case, said: “This provides vital information.’’
The McCanns’ spokesman Clarence Mitchell was unaware of the development.
The couple, from Rothley, Leics, deny any involvement.
dailystar