On [26 [August 2025, two police officers were killed and another injured in Porepunkah, Victoria, when a heavily armed man opened fire during a police operation. The suspect, 56-year-old Dezi Freeman, fled into the bushland and remains at large. Police have been searching the difficult terrain for three days despite severe weather, urging Freeman to surrender. Local residents were advised to stay indoors, and the nearby school was locked down but has since reopened. Authorities warned the suspect is dangerous and armed. Victoria Police are using all available resources in the ongoing manhunt, with support from other states. The community mourns the loss of the officers, who were shot while carrying out their duty. (Updated 28 Aug 2025, 12:17 IST; source: link)