The wife of Australia’s most-wanted man was reportedly present during the fatal shooting of two police officers, authorities have disclosed, as the manhunt intensifies. Dezi Freeman, who has been evading capture since a deadly altercation in Porepunkah, approximately 300km northeast of Melbourne, on August 26, is accused of killing Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart, 35, and Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59. The officers will be laid to rest on Friday and Monday, respectively.
Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly announced that a brief of evidence is being prepared to potentially charge Freeman’s wife, Amalia Freeman, with obstructing police during the incident. “I can confirm that she was present on the morning of the incident,” Kelly informed reporters.
Investigation and Arrests
Amalia Freeman, aged 42, and a 15-year-old were apprehended during a raid at a Porepunkah residence on August 29. She has been interviewed, and police are coordinating with her solicitor to obtain a statement. “She’s got other matters on today and we hope to progress our engagement with her going forward,” Kelly added.
Chief Commissioner Mike Bush revealed that over 100 properties in the Alpine region have been searched by police, who have recently shifted their focus to bushland near the Ovens River. Footage shows armed officers with dogs inspecting a shipping container and a shed, as well as deploying a drone for aerial surveillance.
The Australian military has been enlisted to assist, providing a planning specialist and air surveillance resources at Victoria Police’s request. “Everyone is leaning into this search because we must resolve it as soon as possible,” Bush stated.
Community Impact and Economic Strain
The extensive search operation has significantly impacted local businesses in the popular tourist area, with residents and visitors advised to limit their movements. Marcus Warner, president of the Bright and District Chamber of Commerce and CEO of Pepo Farms, reported a 60% drop in income since the search commenced on August 26.
“It was a pretty painful weekend,” Warner told AAP. “If the search continues into the next week and beyond, they will have some immediate cash-flow issues.”
Local restaurants and accommodation providers have experienced mass cancellations, forcing some to cut casual shifts, with one business losing AU$10,000. Warner’s pumpkin seed and oil business, which remained open during the pandemic and bushfires, closed early over the weekend due to a lack of customers, despite being 10km from the search area.
Weather and Local Sentiment
While bad weather brought the season’s heaviest snowfall to nearby snowfields, locals did not expect to benefit. Marty Robinson, owner of Marty’s Porepunkah Garage, reported most of his bookings were canceled last week, and this week remains quiet. “Financially, the locals are feeling the scars,” he commented.
Despite the challenges, there are small signs of recovery. Porepunkah Primary School is nearly back to normal operations, the local pub has resumed night service, and Porepunkah Pines Holiday Park reopened on Tuesday.
Ongoing Search and Public Appeal
The state’s top police official defended the extended search efforts, citing the challenging terrain of the high-country area. Authorities believe Freeman is being sheltered by others and have urged his associates to surrender him. “He does not deserve to be protected,” Bush asserted. “This person needs to be in custody because of what’s occurred. They need to be held accountable.”
The search for Dezi Freeman continues, with police and military resources committed to bringing the fugitive to justice. As the community grapples with the ongoing disruption, the focus remains on resolving the situation swiftly and safely.
