Police have stated they 'strongly' believe fugitive Dezi Freeman will not be found alive following a five-day search of Mount Buffalo National Park near Porepunkah, Victoria. The search, involving over 100 police and volunteers, was launched after a single gunshot was heard in the bushland less than two hours after Freeman allegedly killed two officers on 26 August.
Detective Inspector Adam Tilley said on Monday that police are exploring three scenarios: Freeman died near Mount Buffalo by self-harm or misadventure; he escaped the area and is being harboured; or he escaped and survived without help. The first scenario is supported by a corroborated report of a gunshot at 12:29pm on 26 August near where Freeman was last seen.
The search, which began on Monday, covered over 1.3 square kilometres of rugged terrain using drones and cadaver dogs. Tilley described the terrain as 'extremely challenging' and 'thick, dense bush'. Despite the extensive efforts, no trace of Freeman has been found.
Freeman is wanted for the alleged murder of Detective Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, 34, who were shot while serving a warrant at Freeman's home. A third officer was also injured. Freeman, a self-described 'sovereign citizen', had been at home with his family at the time.
Taskforce Summit, formed in October, has investigated thousands of pieces of intelligence and tip-offs. Victoria Police have offered a $1 million reward and possible indemnity for information leading to Freeman's capture, the largest reward in the state's history. The public is advised to remain vigilant and not approach Freeman, who is considered armed and dangerous.
