Police hunting for a fugitive accused of murdering two Victorian police officers have shifted their focus to recovering his body after an extensive five-day search of dense bushland.
From Manhunt to Recovery Operation
Skilled officers from Victoria Police are now concentrated on finding the body of Dezi Freeman, 56, who allegedly shot and killed Sergeant Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart, 35. The incident occurred in the rugged Victorian High Country.
Freeman fled into the remote and thick bushland on 26 August and has not been seen since. In a significant update provided on Friday, police revealed that the nature of the search has changed.
Systematic Search of Hostile Terrain
"Police have spent five days systematically searching 0.886 km² in thick bush and heavy terrain, conducting line searches and clearing caves," a statement confirmed. The operation has been aided by two specially trained cadaver dogs.
The statement drew a clear distinction from previous efforts: "The area was previously searched on 12 September with the purpose of locating an active armed offender. However, on this occasion, search teams were focussed on identifying and locating evidence or the body of Freeman."
Despite the intense and meticulous efforts, authorities confirmed that no trace of Freeman has been located at this time.
A Tragic Case with an Uncertain Conclusion
The case has sent shockwaves through the police force and the wider community. The initial manhunt, launched after the fatal shooting of the two officers, was a high-stakes operation to apprehend a potentially dangerous armed individual.
The transition to a recovery mission suggests investigators believe Freeman may no longer be alive in the challenging wilderness. The Victorian High Country is known for its unforgiving landscape, with dense foliage, caves, and difficult terrain posing significant challenges for any prolonged survival without preparation.
Victoria Police have indicated that the search and investigation are ongoing, with further updates to be provided as the situation develops.
