A Polish woman who previously went viral for claiming to be missing child Madeleine McCann has been arrested upon her arrival in the UK.
Julia Wandelt, 23, was detained by police at Bristol Airport shortly after disembarking a flight earlier this evening. Wandelt gained international attention in February 2023 when she created the Instagram account @IAmMadeleineMcCann, claiming she was the missing daughter of Kate and Gerry McCann, who disappeared from a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal, in 2007.
Allegations of Stalking and Harassment
Wandelt’s representative, Surjit Singh Clair, confirmed the arrest: “I’m trying to find out what’s happened, but it appears Julia has been arrested at Bristol Airport this evening just after she got off the plane. The police have reportedly arrested her on an allegation of stalking and harassing the McCanns.”
The nature of the alleged stalking has not yet been detailed, but sources suggest the McCanns have been under increased security measures following Wandelt’s high-profile claims.
Controversial Claims and Media Frenzy
Wandelt’s claims in 2023 ignited a media storm, as she posted photos and videos online asserting she bore a resemblance to Madeleine and highlighting perceived similarities in eye defects. However, a DNA test conducted later that year confirmed that she was not Madeleine McCann, leading to widespread criticism and backlash over her social media stunt.
Despite the DNA evidence, Wandelt continued to make sporadic statements online, insisting that questions surrounding her identity remained unanswered.
Police Investigation and Next Steps
The Avon and Somerset Police have yet to release an official statement regarding Wandelt’s arrest. She is believed to be in police custody, where she will likely be questioned regarding the stalking allegations.
A spokesperson for the McCann family has declined to comment on the arrest at this time.
A Continuing Tragedy
Madeleine McCann was three years old when she went missing on May 3, 2007, during a family holiday in Portugal. Her disappearance remains one of the most high-profile missing persons cases in the world, sparking global media attention and multiple investigations.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as further information becomes available.
