Two men have been taken into custody as part of the continuing investigation into the death of police killer Dezi Freeman, Victoria Police has confirmed.
Arrests in Northeast Victoria
Police announced that the two individuals were apprehended at separate locations in northeast Victoria on Tuesday morning. A 48-year-old man and a 35-year-old man were arrested on 26 May at two distinct sites in the region, according to an official police statement.
The pair are now being interviewed by authorities. The investigation remains active, and police have stated they are not in a position to provide further details at this time.
Court Hearing Reveals Final Moments
The arrests occurred one day after a directions hearing at the Coroners Court of Victoria shed light on the final moments of Freeman’s death and the disturbing rant he made over the bodies of the fallen officers. Freeman was shot dead by police in March after evading capture for seven months. He was wanted for the fatal shootings of Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart and Detective Leading Senior Constable Neil Thompson at his Porepunkah property in August last year.
Authorities have been investigating how Freeman managed to travel from Porepunkah to the remote Thologolong hideout where he was eventually killed. In April, two alleged associates of Freeman—a man and a woman—were arrested but later released.
The court also heard that Freeman was already under investigation for alleged child sexual assault and child abuse material offences when a team of 10 police officers first attended his property.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000. Advice and counselling for men concerned about their use of family violence: Men’s Referral Service, 1300 766 49.
