Australian police are hunting a 56-year-old gunman who shot and killed two officers before vanishing into the bush.
The suspect, identified as Dezi Freeman, opened fire when a team of ten officers arrived at his property in Porepunkah, a small town in northeast Victoria, on Tuesday. Two policemen were killed instantly, and a third was seriously injured. Freeman then escaped on foot into rugged forest terrain.
Authorities believe he is heavily armed, has strong bush survival skills, and knows the area well. Local media have described him as a radicalised conspiracy theorist.
Police helicopters have been scouring the forests for two days, while officers continue to search properties and speak with Freeman’s partner, hoping to track him down.
Deputy Commissioner Russell Barrett vowed that police would not rest until the fugitive is caught. He also warned that anyone caught helping Freeman would face prosecution.
For now, residents in the region remain on edge as the manhunt intensifies, with police urging vigilance and cooperation from the public.