Post by : Shakul

Australian police have reportedly shot dead fugitive Dezi Freeman, bringing an end to a seven-month-long manhunt that began after the killing of two police officers in 2025. Authorities said the incident took place at a rural property in northeast Victoria following a prolonged standoff.

According to Victoria Police, a man believed to be Freeman emerged from a structure armed and failed to surrender despite opportunities given by officers. Police then opened fire during the confrontation. Officials confirmed that no officers were injured, and standard investigations into the shooting are underway.

Freeman, whose real name was Desmond Filby, had been on the run since August after fatally shooting two officers in the town of Porepunkah. The victims, identified as Neal Thompson and Vadim De Waart, were part of a police team visiting the property for an investigation when they were ambushed.

The case had drawn national attention, with authorities launching an extensive search operation across dense bushland areas. A reward was also announced as police combed caves and remote terrain, suspecting that Freeman had survival skills that helped him evade capture.

Officials indicated that while the identity of the deceased is yet to be formally confirmed, early evidence strongly suggests it is Freeman. Investigations will now also focus on whether he received assistance while on the run.

Freeman was known for his extremist anti-government views and association with the “sovereign citizen” movement, which rejects state authority. Authorities had earlier warned that such ideologies could pose serious risks due to their potential to incite violence.

The development is being seen as a significant step toward closure for the families of the slain officers, though officials emphasized that the emotional impact of the tragedy remains.

#world news #Global News #Crime