URGENT UPDATE: A dramatic police operation unfolded late Thursday night in Porepunkah, as heavily armed officers intensified the search for alleged double killer Dezi Freeman. Residents reported a sudden influx of unmarked police vehicles around 9 PM, with multiple detentions taking place on Francis Street.
At 9:24 PM, authorities issued an emergency alert, warning the public to avoid the area as police actively searched for an “armed and dangerous offender.” Eyewitnesses described chaos as officers used loudspeakers to order individuals out of their homes, instructing them to “come out with nothing in your hands.” A specialized unit stormed one residence, escorting “five or six people” outside, believed to be connected to Freeman’s relatives.
The urgent manhunt for Freeman, who allegedly killed Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, is now on its fourth day. Both officers were part of a group executing a search warrant relating to alleged child sex offenses. Another officer who sustained injuries is expected to recover after surgery.
Speaking at a press conference, Superintendent Brett Kahan urged anyone aiding Freeman to reconsider, warning of serious criminal charges. “Ring triple zero, and we will support a surrender plan. That option is absolutely open to him,” Kahan stated, emphasizing the police’s commitment to apprehending Freeman.
Authorities have expanded their search to include nearby mines, caves, and dugouts as weather conditions are set to worsen, with forecasts predicting showers, hail, and even snowfall at elevations above 600 meters. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines confirmed that adverse conditions could complicate the manhunt efforts.
Deputy Commissioner Russell Barrett assured the community that “every available asset and police capability” is being deployed. “That’s our purpose, and we will not rest until it occurs,” he said. The challenging terrain has made progress slow, with Kahan noting that even with specialist resources, moving quickly through the area is difficult.
As police continue to investigate properties and speak with Freeman’s wife, the small community located 300 km northeast of Melbourne has been urged to stay vigilant. The fallen officers received a guard of honor from police vehicles with flashing lights as their bodies were transported to the Melbourne Coroners Court. Kahan reflected on the tragic loss, stating Thompson was nearing retirement after a long career, while De Waart had a “great career in front of him.”
Local services will resume on Friday, but the waste tip will remain closed until further notice, as announced by the Alpine Shire Council. Freeman, who is considered a sovereign citizen and is described as having bush survival skills, was last seen wearing dark green tracksuit pants, a matching rain jacket, brown Blundstone boots, and reading glasses.
As the manhunt continues, authorities are determined to bring Freeman to justice as the community remains on high alert. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
