Manhunt Underway in Rural Victoria After Two Police Officers Killed in Shooting
A massive manhunt is underway in the small Australian town of Porepunkah, Victoria, following a brazen attack that left two police officers dead and another seriously injured. The incident, unfolding Tuesday local time, has shaken the close-knit community and prompted a widespread call for residents to remain indoors.Here’s what we know so far.
The Incident & Initial Response
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed that ten officers were executing a planned operation at a rural property when they came under fire from a heavily armed suspect. Tragically, a 59-year-old detective and a 35-year-old senior constable were killed. A third officer sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.
Commissioner Bush emphasized the immediate priority: “Our priority is to arrest him and bring safety and security to this community.” All available resources are being deployed in the search for the suspect, described as “dangerous.”
Search for Suspect’s Family
Adding to the complexity of the situation, authorities are also working to locate the suspect’s wife and two children. While the suspect was alone at the time of the shooting, police have not yet determined their whereabouts. They are actively seeking to ensure the family’s safety.Suspect Identified as Alleged ‘Sovereign Citizen‘
Initial reports suggest the alleged gunman identifies as a “sovereign citizen” – a term for individuals who falsely believe they are exempt from Australian laws and governmental authority. these groups, known as SovCits, have been present in Australia for decades.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) notes that while generally harmless, SovCit beliefs have seen a resurgence in recent years.
This increase is linked to growing mistrust in authorities, a sentiment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The AFP’s 2023 briefing highlighted an “underlying capacity to inspire violence” within the movement.
Community Impact & Response
Porepunkah, a town of approximately 1,000 residents in the alpine Shire, is in a state of shock. Mayor Sarah Nicholas expressed the community’s grief, stating, “Today has been a day of deep sorrow and shock… We are grieving together.”
local resident Emily White, owner of a caravan park, described the unsettling reality of the situation. “We’re such a small community… Nothing like this ever happens,” she told the BBC.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan have both lauded the bravery of the fallen and injured officers.
Australia’s Strict Gun Laws
This incident is particularly jarring in Australia, a country with some of the world’s most stringent gun control regulations. Gun crime remains relatively rare, a direct result of thorough legislative efforts implemented over the years.
What You Should Do
If you are a resident of Porepunkah or the surrounding Alpine Shire:
Stay Indoors: Heed the advice of authorities and remain inside until further notice.
Report Suspicious Activity: Contact police immediately if you observe anything unusual.
Follow Official Updates: Monitor official channels for the latest information and instructions.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.Resources:
Victoria Police: https://www.police.vic.gov.au/
Australian Federal police: https://www.afp.gov.au/
* Alpine Shire Council: https://www.alpineshire.vic.gov.au/
