In Australia, shots are fired at police officers: the suspect's family has surrendered.

The hunt for the shooter in Porpunkta continues

According to The Sun: The man suspected of murdering two police officers may be hiding in a cave, as his family has decided to surrender to authorities.

The large-scale search is underway for Desi Bird Freeman, 56, who reportedly shot at three officers 'from a distance' while they were executing a search warrant in Porpunkta, Australia, on Tuesday morning.

On Wednesday, the search efforts continued as the suspect's family, fearing Freeman might be abducted, surrendered to authorities at the end of Tuesday.

Freeman's whereabouts are unknown, and police believe he may have fled into the nearby dense forest.

Details of the crime

According to police sources,

it was a 'clear assassination',

In this horrific attack, a 59-year-old detective, who was close to retirement, and a 35-year-old senior constable were killed. Another officer sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh and is currently undergoing surgery in a Melbourne hospital.

The other six members of the ten-member team were unharmed.

Identity of the suspect

Freeman is well-known to police as he has numerous court cases for traffic offenses and charges of resisting police as well as for contempt of court last year.

Reportedly, Freeman is a self-proclaimed 'sovereign citizen', part of a movement that rejects Australian law and government.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated: 'Our thoughts are with the police for their work, daily.'

Residents are urged to stay home while the operation continues, and police assure that they are doing everything possible to apprehend the suspect.

The local primary school is closed, and the district council has closed all public facilities 'immediately.'

Mayor of the Alpine District, Sarah Nicholas, noted that it was a 'distressing' and 'emotional' day for the small community.

This tragedy has brought not only local residents but the entire country into focus. In Australia, as in many other countries, the safety of police officers and the risks they face in carrying out their duties are becoming increasingly important topics. Police continue the search for the suspect, not only to achieve his arrest but also to ensure safety in the community that will long feel the repercussions of this tragedy.