UPDATE: The manhunt for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman is escalating as authorities face significant challenges posed by the region’s complex mining history. As of Saturday, police have announced a staggering $1 million reward for information leading to Freeman’s capture, who is believed to be heavily armed and potentially hiding in one of the many abandoned mines near Porepunkah.
The rugged terrain, dotted with unknown numbers of “adits” or mine shafts from the 1850s gold rush, complicates the search. Former friend Ray Kompe, who taught Freeman bushcraft skills, expressed concern that the fugitive may be concealed deep within these hidden passages, which could thwart the efforts of over 450 officers currently scouring the alpine area.
Detective Inspector Dean Thomas confirmed that teams are actively searching potential hideouts, including mineshafts and caves. “They are being searched, and we continue to clear the mineshafts and caves with our experts,” Thomas reported in a press briefing on Saturday. Despite the extensive search efforts, there have been no confirmed sightings of Freeman since the tragic events of August 26, when he allegedly opened fire on police officers arriving at a property where he was staying.
Freeman’s violent encounter resulted in the deaths of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, 34. Witnesses report that Freeman used a homemade shotgun to ambush the officers as they approached his bus, creating a chaotic and deadly scene.
The urgency of the situation is palpable as families and communities in the region remain on high alert. Local residents express their fears, noting the potential for Freeman to be armed and dangerous. “It’s terrifying to think he could be hiding just around the corner,” one resident shared.
As police continue their search, officials urge anyone with information to come forward. The atmosphere in Porepunkah remains tense as authorities work tirelessly to bring Freeman into custody and restore a sense of safety to the community.
The situation is developing rapidly, and further updates are expected as the manhunt continues. Authorities are focusing on areas that have not yet been fully searched, emphasizing the need for public vigilance in reporting any suspicious activity.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation as police intensify their efforts to locate Dezi Freeman.
