Wife of Suspect in Police Killings Pleads for His Surrender

The wife of a man wanted in connection with the tragic killings of two police officers in Australia has made an emotional plea for her husband to surrender. The suspect, Dezi Freeman, 56, is on the run following a violent incident that occurred on March 5, 2024, in the rural town of Porepunkah, located in Victoria state.

Freeman allegedly opened fire on a team of ten police officers who were attempting to execute a warrant at his home. The brutal shooting resulted in the deaths of Detective Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, according to police reports. A third officer sustained injuries but is expected to recover.

In a statement shared with Australian media on March 10, 2024, Amalia Freeman urged her husband to turn himself in. Her statement, communicated through her lawyer, expressed her support for the ongoing police efforts. “We echo the requests of the Victoria Police for the swift and safe conclusion of this tragedy,” she stated. “Please, Dezi, if you see or hear this, call 000 and arrange a surrender plan with the police.”

She also conveyed her and her children’s deep sorrow for the two officers who lost their lives. “We respect the important work of Victoria Police and do not hold anti-authority views,” Amalia Freeman added, emphasizing a desire for cooperation with law enforcement.

The search for Dezi Freeman has become extensive, involving over 450 police officers. Authorities fear that Freeman may possess bush survival skills and a thorough understanding of the local area, complicating the search efforts. Australian media reports have described him as a radicalized conspiracy theorist associated with the “sovereign citizen” movement, which disputes the legitimacy of government laws and regulations.

Amalia Freeman was arrested alongside her 15-year-old son on March 7, 2024, as part of the investigation into the police killings. Both were released after being questioned by authorities.

The situation has drawn significant attention, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. As the search continues for Dezi Freeman, the community remains on edge, mourning the loss of two dedicated officers.