URGENT UPDATE: The manhunt for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman escalates as authorities announce a $1 million reward for information leading to his capture. The search is being hampered by the vast number of abandoned gold mine shafts in the picturesque town of Porepunkah, Victoria.
Police are racing against time, with over 450 officers deployed to scour the rugged terrain for Freeman, who is believed to be heavily armed following a violent encounter where he fatally shot two police officers. The incident unfolded on August 26, 2023, when Freeman allegedly opened fire on Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, 34, as they approached a property he was occupying.
Detective Inspector Dean Thomas revealed the complexities of the search, stating, “They are being searched, and we continue to clear the mineshafts and caves with our experts.” The search area is littered with numerous abandoned mine shafts, known as “adits,” remnants of the 1850s gold rush. A former friend of Freeman’s, Ray Kompe, noted, “Nobody knows how many there really are, which poses a serious challenge for our teams.”
As the situation develops, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant. With no confirmed sightings of Freeman since the deadly altercation, the urgency to locate him increases. Freeman’s potential hiding places in the mines add a layer of difficulty to the already dangerous operation, as he is considered a significant threat.
Authorities are emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in this urgent manhunt. “If you see something, say something,” Thomas urged, reinforcing that any tips could be crucial in apprehending the fugitive.
The emotional toll on the community is palpable, as residents grapple with the implications of such violence in their small town. The loss of two dedicated officers has left a deep wound, and the ongoing search for Freeman is a race against time to restore safety.
As the manhunt continues, updates are expected frequently. Community members and officials alike are on high alert, keeping a watchful eye on the rugged landscape of Porepunkah. The stakes are high, and the call for justice grows louder by the hour.
