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The huge search for accused gunman Dezi Freeman continues as police today announced the lifting of travel restrictions for the Victorian town of Porepunkah.
Victorian Police this morning gave an update on the search for Freeman, who allegedly gunned down police officers Neal Thompson, 59, and Vadim De Waart-Hottart, 34, and injured a third at his rural property in Victoria’s north-east on August 26.
A total of 125 specialist tactical police, comprising officers from Australian state and territory forces and New Zealand police, carried out the latest operation – the largest of its kind in Australian history, according to police – around the Porepunkah area last Friday.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Russell Barrett said officers had traversed “incredibly rugged areas” during the search, including navigating rivers, falls and plantations and calling through caves.
“It’s an extensive area, really difficult terrain,” he said.
The police have also offered a $1 million reward for information that leads to the capture of the man.
Earlier this month, investigators said some people had knowledge of where Freeman was hiding from police.
Barrett said police were open to “all options” about his location.
“He may be in the area, he may be harboured, he may be dead.”
Police have lifted travel warnings for Porepunkah, but are reminding residents and visitors to remain vigilant as the search for Freeman continues.
Members of the public had been earlier advised to avoid the small town in the Victorian high country.
Barrett said the move was to enable local residents to “return to a state of normality”.