Six months after fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman allegedly shot two police officers before disappearing into dense Victorian bushland, exclusive documents obtained by Daily Mail reveal a critical letter that may have triggered his violent descent. The confrontation, which unfolded on August 26, began when ten officers arrived at Freeman's remote compound in Porepunkah, located 300 kilometres northeast of Melbourne, to execute a search warrant.
The Fatal Standoff and Aftermath
What followed was a tense and fraught confrontation, captured from multiple angles on mobile phones and a police body camera. In footage reviewed by Daily Mail, Freeman refused to open the door as officers, some in plain clothes and others in uniform, attempted to force entry. During the standoff, he raised his voice, pleading with police to call a disability support officer.
Police then pried open a window, after which Freeman became increasingly frantic before allegedly fatally shooting two officers, stealing their weapons, and fleeing into the surrounding bushland. Despite an enormous manhunt and ongoing searches across the rugged alpine ranges surrounding the small town, Freeman has not been seen since.
Largest Reward and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have since offered one of the largest rewards ever issued in the region as investigators continue hunting the well-known conspiracy theorist. However, six months on, there have been no confirmed sightings. Early in the investigation, police suggested Freeman, whose real name is Desmond Filby, may have been receiving assistance while on the run, though they did not specify how many people could be involved.
The Suspension Letter That Preceded the Violence
Documents obtained by Daily Mail now reveal that Victoria Police had already moved to revoke Freeman's access to firearms months before the deadly confrontation. In a formal letter dated June 2024, police advised they had suspended Freeman's Longarm Licence after determining he was no longer considered a 'fit and proper person' to possess firearms under the Firearms Act 1996.
The notice stated that the decision followed a police interview conducted on February 22, 2024, in relation to an alleged offence of hindering police. 'Your Category A & B Longarm Licence No. 887-899-70B is hereby suspended,' the letter declared. It further noted that the suspension was made because Freeman was 'no longer a fit and proper person on any other basis', adding that the matter remained under active investigation by Victoria Police at the time.
Opportunity to Challenge and Compliance Issues
Freeman was informed he could challenge the decision by making a written submission to the Chief Commissioner, explaining why he should keep his licence. Police advised any submission should include a signed response addressing their concerns, along with character references from people able to attest to his suitability to continue owning firearms.
The letter also directed Freeman to surrender his physical licence card within seven days, warning that failure to comply constituted a criminal offence punishable by up to 240 penalty units or four years' imprisonment. It remains unclear whether Freeman complied with this order before the events that unfolded months later.
Mental State and Isolation Factors
Daily Mail understands that Freeman's driver's licence had also been suspended at the time of the shooting. Those close to him claim the restrictions left him increasingly isolated at his remote property. 'He was really depressed,' a close friend said. 'He was unwell physically and unable to shake flu-like symptoms for weeks and had started to drink heavily.'
The friend added, 'He didn't live near public transport and couldn't easily get to town, and that was all weighing on his mental state in the lead-up to that day. No one close to him is justifying what happened, but they can understand why he felt his way of life was being ripped away from him.'
Recent Developments and Police Theories
Last month, police launched another five-day search at the base of Mount Buffalo after a member of the public reported hearing what they believed was a gunshot less than two hours after the officers were killed. At the same time, investigators said they now 'strongly believe' Freeman is dead, while acknowledging they have no definitive evidence confirming his fate.
Police report they have assessed more than 2,000 pieces of information provided by the public as the investigation continues. The case remains one of the most high-profile manhunts in recent Victorian history, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
