Manhunt continues after two cops killed in Australia

The search was underway for a “closely armed” suspect on Wednesday, 24 hours after two officers have been shot lifeless in a regional space of Australia throughout a police operation.

Two officers have been fatally shot and a 3rd was severely injured after being shot within the decrease physique throughout a 10-strong operation within the city of Porepunkah, about 300 kilometres north-east of Melbourne, Victoria Police mentioned.

Native media reported that the officers have been attempting to execute an arrest warrant for sexual offences after they have been ambushed by the 56-year-old suspect at round 10:30 am (0030 GMT) on Tuesday. A big-scale search was launched within the afternoon.

Chief commissioner of Victoria Police, Mike Bush, on Wednesday mentioned that the group that went to the Porepunkah property have been “native officers and members of the sexual offences and baby investigation group,” with out offering additional particulars.

Bush mentioned on Wednesday morning that the suspect is “closely armed,” carrying a number of firearms together with lengthy weapons, and “nonetheless at massive.”

“I can guarantee everybody that we’re pouring each useful resource into this search,” Bush mentioned, including that this isn’t a “hostage state of affairs” and that the person’s household was secure.

“The hunt will proceed till we discover him,” Bush mentioned, calling for residents to remain house if potential and discouraging anybody from serving to him.

“Do not assist this particular person. He is very harmful. He has killed two cops and injured a 3rd. He doesn’t deserve anybody’s help,” the Victoria Police boss mentioned.

In response to native studies, the alleged perpetrator was residing in a bus on the premises and is alleged to be a so-called sovereign citizen – a member of a small subsection of the inhabitants who imagine they don’t seem to be topic to state legal guidelines.