The search for fugitive Dezi Freeman has reached the one-month mark, leaving many questioning when the police might draw a line and call off the pursuit. Freeman, also known as Desmond Filby, has been on the run since August 26, following the alleged shooting that killed two officers who were executing a search warrant at his residence in northern Victoria.
Over 450 officers have been scouring the Porepunkah area and conducted the largest ever tactical operation in early September, with no signs of Freeman. Criminologist Vince Hurley suggests it would be reasonable for the search to continue for another two months before being called off.
However, the police face significant resourcing challenges, with costs already likely in the millions due to travel, accommodation, and equipment. A former police officer, Charlie Bezzina, suggested that there will be a point at which the police will have to withdraw.
Figures show that the search operation is taxing the police force’s budget, with a major impact on their operating costs. While tracing Freeman remains a priority, it is evident that this cannot continue indefinitely. Despite this, Hurley posits three options: either Freeman is deceased, receiving help from the public, or has successfully fled on his own. The latter scenario, although difficult, is not impossible, reminiscent of Malcolm Naden’s seven-year run before his capture in New South Wales in 2012.
Victoria police have offered a $1 million reward for information leading to Freeman’s capture, and local businesses have called for increased tourism to counter the economic impact. Travel restrictions are being reduced to encourage visitors back to the region, though Mount Buffalo national park remains closed.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/sep/27/dezi-freeman-search-one-month-on-how-long-police-continue-manhunt-porepunkah-shooting-ntwnfb
