After having seen the latest photographs and video from Faro International Airport I can't help thinking that the cosy relationship so oft written about between Scotland Yard and the Polícia Judiciária is not quite happening. Not only were Redwood and his three detective colleagues required to go through all the usual formalities at the airport but they were left standing outside with photographers making hay, how embarrassing.
The Portuguese police could have extended the courtesy to the English detectives of bypassing the normal formalities, they could have been met at the aircraft steps. That this did not happen, inspires little confidence in what is still to come.
Another question which must be asked is why was it necessary for four Scotland Yard detectives to travel to Portugal? It's not as if they are going to be able to question anyone since they have no mandate to do so on foreign turf. I find this situation to be highly questionable considering the public funds which have already been squandered on this case.
There existed no reason why this latest trip to Portugal had to be publicised. By announcing their intentions in advance they effectively damaged any advantage they might have had. Police officers involved in enquiries overseas are not in the habit of announcing their intentions so why now?
Is this latest development nothing more than a publicity stunt?