UPDATE: Police have urgently shifted their search to locating the body of alleged police killer Dezi Freeman, who is on the run after fatally shooting two officers, Neal Thompson and Vadim de Waart-Hottart, during a warrant execution in Porepunkah, approximately 300 km northeast of Melbourne. This critical development comes after days of extensive searches through rural bushland.
Authorities confirmed that specialist resources, including the dog squad, NSW cadaver dogs, and a drone unit, are now focused on a targeted search of Mount Buffalo National Park. The park, previously scoured for Freeman, is now the scene of a concentrated effort to locate his body, with teams navigating thick bush and rocky terrain.
The police manhunt began on August 26 and involved over 400 officers in the initial response following the tragic deaths of the two officers. Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien expressed the profound impact of the loss on both the Victoria Police force and the community, stating, “The devastating loss of Neal and Vadim has struck at the heart of Victoria Police.”
Detective Senior Constable Thompson, aged 59, was just a week from retirement, while Senior Constable de Waart-Hottart, aged 34, was on temporary assignment in the area. Police have reported that no trace of Freeman has been found despite investigating over 1,950 pieces of intelligence, including tips from the public.
In a bid to encourage information, Victoria Police have issued a record $1 million reward for details leading to Freeman’s capture, the largest in the state’s history. O’Brien reassured the community, stating, “We will continue to conduct targeted searches… and maintain a presence in the community.”
Residents in the area are urged to remain vigilant and avoid approaching Freeman, who is considered armed and dangerous. The park has since reopened, but police patrols continue as the investigation unfolds. The community’s resilience and cooperation are crucial as authorities strive to bring this manhunt to a resolution.
As the situation develops, police remain committed to utilizing every resource available to locate Desmond Freeman. Stay tuned for further updates as this urgent search continues.
