Police Share Major Update In Search For Cop Killer Dezi Freeman

Porepunkah Shooting Suspect Dezi Freeman Believed to be Receiving Assistance, Police Say

The search for Dezi Freeman, the alleged gunman accused of killing two police officers in Porepunkah, Victoria, has entered its seventh day, with authorities convinced that he is being helped by members of the community.

Police have urged anyone with information to come forward, stating that “people know” where Freeman is hiding.

Freeman, 56, is accused of shooting Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart as they attempted to execute a warrant for historical sex offences at his property.

He escaped into the bush heavily armed and has not been seen since.

Police Investigations and Search Efforts

Police have been searching for Freeman in the dense bushland near Porepunkah, with convoys of armoured vehicles and a helicopter deployed in the area.

However, the harsh weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, have made the search challenging.

Victoria Police Superintendent Brett Kahan has appealed to anyone helping or harbouring Freeman to come forward, offering a surrender plan to those involved.

Police have also arrested members of Freeman’s family, including his wife and 15-year-old son, although they were released without charge.

Family Plea and Public Statement

Freeman’s wife, Amalia, has issued a public statement, expressing condolences to the families of the slain police officers and rejecting any assertion that she shares her husband’s extremist views.

She has urged him to surrender and cooperate with police, stating that she will assist authorities in any way possible.

Community Fear and Tension

The search for Freeman has gripped the town of Porepunkah, with residents expressing fear and concern for their safety.

Businesses and the local primary school have reopened, but warnings remain in place across a broad swathe of the region.

Authorities have restricted travel in the search area to essential activities only, advising those outside to avoid the area altogether.

Police have deployed over 450 officers in the search for Freeman, with Minister Anthony Carbines saying that police will remain in the area for as long as necessary to apprehend the alleged shooter.