Victoria Police Announce Major New Search for Missing Alleged Cop Killer
Victoria Police have launched a significant new five-day search operation for Dezi Freeman, the 56-year-old man wanted in connection with the alleged fatal shooting of two police officers. This latest effort comes after extensive previous searches failed to locate Freeman, who has been missing since August last year.
Who Is Dezi Freeman?
Dezi Freeman, born Desmond Filby, is a father of three who identifies as a sovereign citizen. This ideology, held by pseudo-law adherents, rejects the authority of parliamentary laws and government institutions. Freeman has openly expressed hostility toward police and government bodies, leading to estrangement from family and friends. Additionally, he possesses considerable bushcraft skills and experience as a bushman, which authorities believe may have aided his disappearance.
The Alleged Crime and Its Aftermath
On August 26, 2025, ten officers executed a search warrant at Freeman's property in Porepunkah, northeast Victoria, related to historical sexual offence allegations. During the operation, Freeman allegedly opened fire, striking three officers. Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were tragically killed. A third officer sustained serious leg injuries, while a fourth narrowly escaped harm when Freeman's firearm reportedly malfunctioned.
Following the shooting, Freeman fled into nearby bushland and has not been seen since. In the days after the incident, his wife Mali, 42, and 15-year-old son were arrested during a police raid but were later released without charges.
Mount Buffalo National Park: The Search Epicentre
The search has concentrated on Mount Buffalo National Park, located near Freeman's property. The park was closed for months after the shooting but reopened to the public in October. Despite multiple extensive searches by police, no trace of Freeman has been found. Authorities have reviewed video evidence, including a 20-minute recording showing officers attempting to negotiate with Freeman before the shooting.
Reward and Taskforce Efforts
In September, police announced a $1 million reward for information leading to Freeman's arrest, the largest such reward in Victoria's history. Detective Inspector Dean Thomas emphasised the seriousness of the offence and the commitment to removing any threat to the community. Taskforce Summit was established in October 2025, comprising detectives and specialist units to coordinate the hunt.
Shifting Focus: Searching for a Body
Recent searches, including a five-day operation in December, have shifted focus toward locating Freeman's body. Police conducted line searches and cleared caves, based on a gunshot heard near the property shortly after the shooting. The new search will utilise a NSW Police cadaver dog, though authorities remain open to the possibility that Freeman is still at large.
Family Perspectives and Ongoing Investigation
Freeman's brother, James Filby, expressed belief that his brother died in the national park, seeking closure for the family while condemning the alleged actions. Victoria Police will hold a press conference in Porepunkah to provide details on the latest search effort, underscoring their determination to resolve this high-profile case.
