22/05/2009

British Paedophile Investigated Over Maddy Disappearance

A convicted British paedophile is being investigated as "an individual of interest" by private detectives, in connection with the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, it has been reported.

Raymond Hewlett, 64, a former soldier, is believed to have been living an hour's drive from the resort of Praia da Luz, in Portugal, when the three-year-old went missing in May 2007.

Hewlett has been jailed several times for sexual offences against young girls.

According to reports, the 64-year-old is wanted for questioning by police forces in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Leicestershire, and the Republic of Ireland.

It is understood he is being treated for throat cancer in Germany.

Clarence Mitchell, Kate and Gerry McCann's spokesman said: "We are aware of Raymond Hewlett and the claims that have been made about him in some newspapers.

"The investigators searching for Madeleine are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding these claims.

"Mr Hewlett is an individual of interest to the Madeleine investigation but I would stress it is just one line of inquiry. Beyond that I can't really go into any further operational detail."

Portuguese police have said they are no longer actively investigating the case.

Private detectives, working on behalf of the McCann's - financed by funds from the appeal set up by the family - are continuing investigations into Madeleine's disappearance.

(JM/BMcc)

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