Massive Manhunt for Alleged Cop Killer in Victoria's Bushland
Published 29 August 2025
Highlights
- A manhunt is underway for Dezi Freeman, accused of killing two police officers in Porepunkah, Victoria.
- Freeman, associated with the "sovereign citizen" movement, fled into the bush with multiple firearms.
- The incident has involved over 450 officers and sparked discussions on handling anti-government groups.
- Freeman's wife and a teenager were arrested and released as part of the ongoing investigation.
- Severe weather conditions have complicated the search efforts in the rugged terrain of Victoria's high country.
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Rewritten Article
Massive Manhunt for Alleged Cop Killer in Victoria's Bushland
The tranquil town of Porepunkah, nestled in Victoria's high country, has become the epicenter of a massive manhunt following the alleged murder of two police officers by Dezi Freeman. The incident has not only shocked the local community but also reignited debates on how Australia addresses the growing influence of anti-government conspiracy groups.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
On Tuesday morning, a team of ten officers arrived at Freeman's rural property to execute a search warrant related to a sex crimes investigation. The officers were met with gunfire, resulting in the deaths of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35. A third officer was injured and is recovering in hospital. Freeman, who is also known as Desmond Filby, managed to escape into the dense bushland surrounding his property, armed with several firearms.
Community and Police Response
The manhunt has drawn over 450 officers from across Australia, including elite special forces, to the small town of Porepunkah. Victoria's Chief Commissioner Mike Bush emphasized the coordinated nature of the operation, stating, "We are not leaving here until this person is in custody." The search has been complicated by severe weather conditions, with thunderstorms hampering efforts in the rugged terrain.
Background and Investigation
Freeman, 56, is linked to the "sovereign citizen" movement, known for its anti-government stance. A former friend described him as a skilled outdoorsman with deteriorating mental health, questioning the decision to send multiple officers to his property. Freeman's wife and a 15-year-old boy were arrested and released after questioning, as police continue to explore potential leads.
Impact on the Community
The incident has left the tight-knit community of Porepunkah in shock. Residents, who are accustomed to a peaceful lifestyle, now find themselves at the center of a national media spotlight. The deaths of the officers have deeply affected those who knew them, with tributes pouring in for Thompson, who was nearing retirement, and De Waart, a promising young officer.
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Scenario Analysis
As the search for Dezi Freeman continues, authorities face the challenge of navigating both the physical terrain and the broader implications of the case. The incident highlights the need for law enforcement to address the growing influence of anti-government movements in Australia. Experts suggest that a review of police protocols and risk assessments may be necessary to prevent similar tragedies. Meanwhile, the local community remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution to the manhunt and a return to normalcy.
The tranquil town of Porepunkah, nestled in Victoria's high country, has become the epicenter of a massive manhunt following the alleged murder of two police officers by Dezi Freeman. The incident has not only shocked the local community but also reignited debates on how Australia addresses the growing influence of anti-government conspiracy groups.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
On Tuesday morning, a team of ten officers arrived at Freeman's rural property to execute a search warrant related to a sex crimes investigation. The officers were met with gunfire, resulting in the deaths of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35. A third officer was injured and is recovering in hospital. Freeman, who is also known as Desmond Filby, managed to escape into the dense bushland surrounding his property, armed with several firearms.
Community and Police Response
The manhunt has drawn over 450 officers from across Australia, including elite special forces, to the small town of Porepunkah. Victoria's Chief Commissioner Mike Bush emphasized the coordinated nature of the operation, stating, "We are not leaving here until this person is in custody." The search has been complicated by severe weather conditions, with thunderstorms hampering efforts in the rugged terrain.
Background and Investigation
Freeman, 56, is linked to the "sovereign citizen" movement, known for its anti-government stance. A former friend described him as a skilled outdoorsman with deteriorating mental health, questioning the decision to send multiple officers to his property. Freeman's wife and a 15-year-old boy were arrested and released after questioning, as police continue to explore potential leads.
Impact on the Community
The incident has left the tight-knit community of Porepunkah in shock. Residents, who are accustomed to a peaceful lifestyle, now find themselves at the center of a national media spotlight. The deaths of the officers have deeply affected those who knew them, with tributes pouring in for Thompson, who was nearing retirement, and De Waart, a promising young officer.
What this might mean
As the search for Dezi Freeman continues, authorities face the challenge of navigating both the physical terrain and the broader implications of the case. The incident highlights the need for law enforcement to address the growing influence of anti-government movements in Australia. Experts suggest that a review of police protocols and risk assessments may be necessary to prevent similar tragedies. Meanwhile, the local community remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution to the manhunt and a return to normalcy.
