Summary: In Victoria, police are on a fifth day of a high-risk search for gunman Dezi Freeman after he allegedly shot dead two officers and injured another, with severe alpine weather complicating the operation and a large-scale manhunt continuing near Porepunkah.
Australian police are continuing a major manhunt in Victoria’s alpine region as severe weather makes the search for gunman Dezi Freeman extremely challenging. Freeman, 56 and previously known as Desmond Filby, is suspected of fleeing into dense bush after allegedly shooting dead two officers and injuring another at a rural property in the state.
Hundreds of officers are in the field, focusing on the Porepunkah area, about 300 kilometres northeast of Melbourne. Freeman is believed to have expert bushcraft skills and access to multiple firearms, according to a police spokesperson. He is alleged to have fired on a team of 10 officers when they arrived at his Porepunkah property to execute a search warrant before disappearing into the bush.
The Bureau of Meteorology warned of severe weather in the region, bringing cold conditions, strong winds, and snow. Forecaster Jonathan How noted a very cold night ahead, with the possibility of black ice on roads. A minimum temperature of 0 degrees Celsius was forecast for Sunday in Porepunkah, adding to the dangers faced by search crews.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan visited the Wangaratta police station on Friday to pay tribute to the two slain officers, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, describing the operation as a “huge” effort by authorities to capture Freeman. Allan shared on social media that the officers’ loss “won’t be forgotten” and that they served with honor.
Police have not publicly identified Freeman as a suspect in additional crimes, but media reports have described him as a sovereign citizen who questions the legitimacy of government authorities.
What this means for residents and travelers in the area is that conditions are dangerous and the search will likely extend into difficult terrain and worsening weather. Authorities are urging people in the region to heed warnings, stay away from the search zones, and report any sightings to police.
If you’re following this developing story, expect further updates as weather and terrain continue to influence the operation. The focus remains on locating Freeman safely and ensuring the safety of officers and the public.
Additional notes and context:
– The incident underscores the risks faced by frontline officers in high-threat warrants and the importance of rapid, coordinated response in rural settings.
– Severe alpine weather adds a layer of complexity to searches in bushland, mountainous terrain, and rural road networks, highlighting the need for specialized equipment and planning.
– The tribute to the fallen officers is a reminder of the human cost in policing and the ongoing commitment of emergency services to protect communities under difficult conditions.
Positive note:
Despite the danger and disruption, the authorities’ sustained, united response demonstrates resilience and dedication to public safety. Community vigilance and adherence to official guidance will be crucial as the search continues toward a safe and just resolution.
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