URGENT UPDATE: Two police officers have been tragically killed in an ambush while executing a search warrant in Porepunkah, Victoria, a shocking incident that echoes the deadly 2022 Wieambilla shootings. The attack occurred on Tuesday when a man, identified as Dezi Freeman, opened fire on officers, resulting in the deaths of a 59-year-old detective and a 35-year-old senior constable. Another officer was wounded in the assault.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed that the alleged shooter was known to authorities and that a comprehensive risk assessment had been conducted prior to the operation. “The presence of 10 officers at the scene underscores the seriousness of the situation,” he stated during a press conference.
Police sources indicate that Freeman may be linked to the sovereign citizen movement, raising alarms similar to the 2022 tragedy in Queensland, where two officers were killed by individuals associated with this extremist ideology. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese spoke out against the growing threat of far-right extremism in Australia, emphasizing the need for vigilance as ASIO has flagged this concern as very real.
“This ideology of rejecting our laws and society is alarming,” Albanese noted during an interview with ABC’s 7.30. The emotional toll on police personnel is substantial, with Police Association Victoria secretary Wayne Gatt remarking, “Every officer is mourning right now. They are supporting each other as they grapple with this tragedy.”
The incident in Porepunkah has not only shocked the local community but also reignited discussions about the safety of law enforcement in Australia. As police provide support to the affected officers and their families, the broader implications of this shooting are being examined.
As authorities continue to respond to this urgent situation, the community is left to process the deep impact of this violence. What happens next is critical, as police and government officials work to ensure the safety of officers and the public alike. Further updates are expected as investigations unfold in the coming days.
Stay tuned for more developments on this breaking news story as it evolves.
