Police are responding to an “active incident” in a rural town in Australia.
Victoria Police have confirmed that an incident is under way at a property in Porepunkah, around 300km (186 miles) northeast of Melbourne.
Local media, citing unnamed sources, are reporting that two officers have been killed in the incident, which they say took place while officers attempted to execute a search warrant.
A map showing Porepunkah, Victoria, Australia
Victoria Police have not confirmed any casualties, and say they “will provide more information when it’s operationally safe to do so”.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), quoting Ambulance Victoria (AV), said another person injured in the shooting has been taken to hospital.
An AV spokesperson said it is “on scene” and its paramedics “have treated one person for serious lower body injuries and transported them by air ambulance in a stable condition”.
ABC’s Sharnelle Vella said the gunman is on the run and “heavily armed”.
Quoting police contacts, Ms Vella said officers believe the shooter is a so-called “sovereign citizen” and that police were serving a warrant from the sexual crimes squad, known as SOCIT.
10 News Melbourne said the wounded person was also a police officer, who was shot in the thigh “while serving a warrant at the property on Tuesday morning.
“Heavy gunfire has stopped officers from entering the property as they await the arrival of the Special Operations Group”.
It’s reported that two officers have been killed. Pic: Reuters
The outlet quoted three police sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, that the dead officers “were killed in an ambush attack”.
In a statement on the X social media platform, Jacinta Allan, the Premier of Victoria, said: “A police operation is currently under way in Porepunkah, in Victoria’s northeast.
“I have been briefed by the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police. This situation remains active.
“Victoria Police officers, and all our first responders, show extraordinary bravery and courage every single day.
“They are the best of us – and the thoughts of all Victorians are with them today.”
The Porepunkah Pub has said on Facebook it will be closed on Tuesday evening “following advice from Victorian Police” saying “the safety of our staff, guests, and community is our priority”.
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