Police are continuing a manhunt for a heavily armed shooter who fatally wounded two police officers and maimed another.
It is alleged 56-year-old Dezi Freeman is heavily armed and dangerous, having taken at least one weapon from a slain officer.
The alleged offender is believed to be hiding in dense bushland in Porepunkah, about 300km northeast of Melbourne.
The incident unfolded on Aug. 26 when police attended a Porepunkah home to execute a search warrant.
Neighbours reported hearing around 20 shots as two officers aged 59 and 35 were killed.
Sources have alleged the alleged offender is a “sovereign citizen,” a sub-culture rejecting government and rooted in the belief that laws do not apply.
Many followers of the movement refuse to pay taxes and abhor authority.
The movement is said to gain traction during times of economic and social upheaval.
A major search is underway after the man escaped into bushland.
Victoria Police’s Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said the man was known to police and a risk assessment had been conducted before officers executed the search warrant.
Victorian Police issued a critical incident alert around 2 p.m.
“This is still an active incident and will provide more information when it’s operationally safe to do so,” a statement on social media read.
“We ask people avoid the area.”
Police Association Issues Statement
The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) issued a statement on social media.“AFPA extends its deepest thoughts to the officers, families, and colleagues of Victoria Police affected by today’s incident at Porepunkah, near Bright in Victoria,” AFPA President Alex Caruana said.
“Reports confirm that one officer has been wounded, and two others are believed, but not confirmed, to be deceased after police executed a warrant at a rural property.”
Caruana said emergency services were working tirelessly to keep the community safe.
At the time of reporting, no one had been apprehended in relation to the incident.
“Policing is dangerous and unpredictable work, and what has happened in Porepunkah is a reminder of the risks officers face every day in keeping the community safe,” Caruana said.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese did speak about it though.
“Our thoughts are with the police for the work they do, each and every day,” he told media.
School Locked Down
Porepunkah Primary School has been locked down, with Principal Jill Giles telling ABC Melbourne Radio the facility had resources to remain locked-down overnight if necessary.“Teachers are absolute superstars and I have the best bunch of staff, they’ve had the kids in lockdown since around 11.30 this morning, they are masters at being able to be creative to find fun things to engage the kids and distract,” she said.
“Our teachers are amazing and the kids are super resilient.”
Premier Praises Bravery
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan acknowledged the bravery of emergency workers in the midst of the shocking situation.“The police minister and I have been briefed by the chief commissioner of the Victoria police and this situation remains active,” she said.
“Victoria police officers and all of our first responders show extraordinary bravery and courage every single day. They are the best of us.”
Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin also made a statement expressing his solidarity.
“We send out our thoughts to the families, the parents and everyone involved with those schools as well,” he said.
“We hope there is a quick resolution and more information comes out as soon as possible, but to every single Victoria police officer today, we stand with you, we stand beside you and we’ll continue to.”
