The Spanish authorities have confirmed that a specific lead is being followed in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of teenager Amy Fitzpatrick, who has been missing on the Costa del Sol since January 1st.
Officers leading the investigation have begun a search for a white car belonging to a neighbour of the girl's family, who was interviewed on Wednesday night and yesterday as part of inquiries into the disappearance of the Dublin girl, aged 15.
Interior ministry spokesman Hilario López said the man, whose identity has not been disclosed, could not account for the whereabouts of the missing vehicle and had not reported its absence to the authorities earlier because he did not want to draw attention to himself.
During questioning it was discovered that two Spanish warrants had been issued for the man's arrest in connection with drink-driving offences and he was immediately detained and held in custody overnight.
Local sources say the neighbour was called in for questioning after one of the girl's closest friends, Ashley Rubio, revealed during a fourth interview with police that the teenager often went to his house when she had rows at home.
The Spanish government's most senior representative in Andalusia, Juan José Garzón, said: "Amy had access to the car and police are anxious to establish as soon as possible if it is connected to her disappearance".