Search for Dezi Freeman continues as police lift Porepunkah travel warning
Share and Follow

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.

Police continue to search for accused gunman Dezi Freeman. (Photo: Eddie Jim). (Nine)

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.”

Porepunkah where Dezi Freeman lives cover in morning fog. 9 September 2025. Photo: Eddie Jim.
Dezi Freeman is believed to be still hiding in the Victorian high country. (Photo: Eddie Jim). (Eddie Jim)

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”.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Mamdani Addresses the Public Following Historic NYC Election Victory Amidst Trump’s Reaction to Democratic Wins

Zohran Mamdani is projected to make history as the first Muslim and…
Queensland drivers were given the option to renew their licences online as opposed to in-person at a transport department service centre.

Technical Error Permits Thousands to Renew Digital Licenses Without Medical Verification

A significant issue has been identified within Queensland’s digital system for renewing…
Warning to tourists as world's first ban on smoking cigarettes is enforced

Global Landmark: World’s First Cigarette Smoking Ban Enforced, Tourists Advised

The Maldives has made history by becoming the first country to implement…
South Australians wanting to buy property wouldn't have to pay stamp duty under an ambitious plan announced by the state opposition today.

State Unveils Ambitious Proposal to Eliminate Controversial Tax

In a bold move to transform the property market, the South Australian…
WA dad wearing nothing but SpongeBob undies takes down alleged carjacker

Heroic WA Dad in SpongeBob Underwear Foils Alleged Carjacking Attempt

A West Australian father clad only in his SpongeBob SquarePants underwear has…
Cargo plane crashes at US Louisville airport, sparking huge fireball

Massive Fireball Erupts Following Plane Crash in the United States

A tragic incident unfolded near Louisville, Kentucky, when a United Parcel Service…

US Supreme Court Evaluates Trump-Era Tariffs in Pivotal Case with Global Trade Implications

US Supreme Court justices raised doubts on Wednesday over the legality of…
Elaine Johnson and Kerry Anne Joel vanished in January 1980.

Unraveling the Mystery: Disappearance of Elaine and Kerry Anne Linked to Previous Missing Girls Cases

A new podcast delving into the mysterious disappearance of two teenage girls…