Two arrested, released in Victoria after cop killer Dezi Freeman's death probe

Two people were arrested and released in Victoria as part of the investigation into Dezi Freeman's 216-day escape, which followed the deaths of two police officers.
By Newsroom | Crime, Victoria |

PROBE INTO FREEMAN'S MOVEMENTS CONTINUES

Two individuals, identified as associates of the recently deceased police killer Dezi Freeman, were arrested and subsequently released pending further inquiries, as investigations into his prolonged evasion of law enforcement persist. The arrests, occurring Saturday morning at two separate northeastern Victoria properties, involved a man and a woman who are not related to Freeman. Victoria Police confirmed these details, indicating the arrests were part of an ongoing examination into potential assistance provided to Freeman during his 216-day flight.

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The pair were detained by detectives from Taskforce Summit. Police have not divulged specific details regarding the nature of their suspected involvement, citing the ongoing investigation. This development follows the fatal shooting of Freeman on Monday, which concluded an extensive manhunt initiated after he killed Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart‑Hottart in August 2025. A third officer was seriously injured during the initial incident at Freeman's Porepunkah property.

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Authorities have previously suggested Freeman likely received help while evading capture. Chief Commissioner Mike Bush, speaking Monday, reiterated this assertion. Earlier attempts to charge Freeman's wife, Mali Freeman, and a 56-year-old Porepunkah resident for obstructing the investigation were reportedly dropped last month.

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Freeman, described as a self-described 'sovereign citizen', was shot dead at a remote property in Thologolong, near Walwa, after police surrounded a shipping container-style structure where he was believed to be hiding. Witnesses reported he emerged with a blanket and presented a firearm, prompting officers to open fire. The precise circumstances leading to the confrontation remain under official review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why were two people arrested in Victoria after Dezi Freeman's death?
Two people, who are not related to Dezi Freeman, were arrested in Victoria as police investigate who may have helped him evade capture for 216 days. They were later released pending further inquiries.
Q: When and where were the two people arrested in Victoria?
The arrests happened on Saturday morning at two different properties in northeastern Victoria. This investigation is part of the probe into Dezi Freeman's prolonged evasion of law enforcement.
Q: What is Taskforce Summit investigating regarding Dezi Freeman?
Taskforce Summit detectives are examining if anyone provided assistance to Dezi Freeman during his 216-day period on the run. Police have not shared specific details about the suspected involvement of the arrested individuals.
Q: What led to the death of Dezi Freeman?
Dezi Freeman was shot dead on Monday at a remote property in Thologolong. Police reported he emerged from a hiding place with a firearm, leading officers to open fire. This followed a manhunt after he killed two police officers in August 2025.
Q: Were there previous attempts to charge people related to Dezi Freeman's case?
Yes, earlier attempts to charge Dezi Freeman's wife, Mali Freeman, and another resident for obstructing the investigation were reportedly dropped last month. The investigation into potential assistance continues.