Deadly Standoff in Porepunkah: Two Officers Dead, Gunman at Large

After a search warrant turned deadly, leading to two officers dead and another injured, a heavily armed suspect is still at large, prompting a fierce police operation close to Porepunkah.

An "active incident" is being handled by police in a small Australian town. A property near Porepunkah, around 300 kilometers (186 miles) northeast of Melbourne, is the scene of an ongoing disturbance, according to Victoria Police. According to local media, which cites anonymous sources, the incident claimed the lives of two cops and occurred when officers were attempting to carry out a search warrant.

Victoria Police say they will release more details when it is operationally safe to do so, but they have not confirmed any casualties.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), quoting Ambulance Victoria, stated that another individual injured in the gunshot has been brought to the hospital. According to a spokeswoman for Ambulance Victoria, the organization is "on scene," and its paramedics have treated a patient with severe lower-body injuries before airlifting them in a stable condition.

Sharnelle Vella of ABC said that the shooter is highly armed and on the run. According to Ms. Vella, who cited police contacts, police were carrying out a warrant from the sexual crimes unit, or SOCIT, and authorities think the gunman is a so-called sovereign citizen.

Sovereign citizens typically claim to be non-violent or acting solely in self-defense against the government, according to the Australian Federal Police's website.

Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan said a police operation is underway in Porepunkah, in the northeastern region of the state, in a statement posted on the social media site X. The Victoria Police Chief Commissioner has briefed her. This is still an ongoing problem. Every day, Victoria Police officers and all of their first responders display incredible bravery and courage. The opinions of all Victorians remain with them now, and they are the finest of them.