Police Offer AU$1 Million Reward for Arrest of Cop Killer

Police in Australia have announced a reward of up to AU$1 million (£500,000) for information leading to the arrest of Dezi Bird Freeman, a 56-year-old suspect linked to the fatal shooting of two police officers. Freeman has been evading authorities for 12 days following the incident on August 26, 2023, in the Alpine town of Porepunkah, located approximately 186 miles northeast of Melbourne.

The violent confrontation occurred when a group of ten officers attempted to execute a search warrant at a property, resulting in what police sources described as a “straight out execution.” Officers Neal Thompson, 59, who was nearing retirement, and Vadim De Waart, 35, were killed during the attack, while a third officer sustained serious injuries. The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the local community, which has a population of around 1,000 residents.

Intensive Manhunt Underway

In response to the brutal shooting, Victoria Police have mobilized over 450 officers in a desperate search for Freeman. Authorities believe he may have fled into nearby bushland after the attack. Police are taking extraordinary measures, including conducting searches of Freeman’s property and raiding over 100 local homes. The search area has also seen the implementation of a no-fly zone to mitigate risks posed by aircraft, including drones, given that the suspect is considered heavily armed.

Victoria Police stated, “This reward represents the largest ever offered in Victoria for an arrest.” The announcement highlights the seriousness of the situation as police aim to locate Freeman and bring him to justice safely.

Freeman, who has been described as a self-proclaimed “Sovereign Citizen,” has a history of criminal behavior, including previous arrests for traffic offenses and anti-government protests. His ideology aligns with a fringe movement that rejects the authority of Australian laws and government.

Community Impact and Official Responses

The shooting has had a profound impact on the Porepunkah community. Following the attack, local primary schools were placed on lockdown, and the Alpine shire council closed all public facilities to ensure safety. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences and support for the police, stating, “Our thoughts are with the police for the work they do, each and every day.”

Freeman’s family has reportedly turned themselves in during the investigation, leading to speculation about their safety and possible involvement in his escape. As authorities continue their search, they urge anyone with information regarding Freeman’s whereabouts to come forward, emphasizing the need for community cooperation in addressing this ongoing crisis.

The urgency of the situation has prompted a comprehensive approach from law enforcement, underscoring the risks faced by police officers daily in the line of duty.