“We are comfortable that we don’t believe he is here alive. However, we are keeping an open mind that that is a possibility.
“We do believe strongly that he is in this area, deceased.”
During an extensive search of caves, mines and rivers in the dense bushland, officers had uncovered no evidence to suggest Freeman is still alive.
This week’s search will cover an area equivalent to the size of about 52 Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) ovals.
The search – as well as one back in December – was sparked after a member of the public came forward and said they heard a gunshot after the alleged fatal shooting.
“The reason why we conducted the search both in December and the reason we are conducting the search this week is based on information received,” Tilley told reporters at a press conference.
“We have had a member of the public come forward and indicate to us, on that day, about 12.29pm this witness heard what they believe to be a gunshot in the vicinity of this area.”
Analysis of firearms testing helped police identify these search locations.
Tilley said investigators are “comfortable” a gunshot was heard, as the person’s information was corroborated by other information obtained by police.
Detectives have scoured through more than 2000 pieces of information, with Tilley calling it the country’s “largest operation”.
Tilley urged people with information to come forward, even if they do share sovereign citizen-like beliefs.
“Even if you are on the side of sovereign citizens, we say, if Desmond Freeman is out there, he is armed and dangerous,” he said.
“And if you are looking after him, just be mindful that he can still cause harm to others in the community.
“If they’re protecting him in any way, I’d have concern.”
The fatal shooting unfolded as officers executed a search warrant in Porepunkah on August 26 last year, with a third officer left seriously injured.
The self-described “sovereign citizen” is believed to have fled on foot into dense bushland armed with guns.
Tilley said officers wanted to give closure to the families of Neal and Vadim.
“This incident, which resulted in the deaths of Neal and Vadim, continues to have a significant impact on both Victoria Police and the Porepunkah community more broadly,” Tilley said.
“I want to reaffirm to the community that Victoria Police remains committed to doing everything we can – using every available resource and the necessary capabilities – to locate Desmond Freeman.
“We will maintain a presence in the community, and we are determined we will see this to resolution.”
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