Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush appealed to Freeman to hand himself in while speaking to media.

“I do appeal to the person responsible to hand themselves in immediately and my message to him is that your destiny is in your hands,” Bush said.

In response, a large contingent of police officers, supported by specialist units, has been mobilized in Victoria’s Hume region, located in the state’s north-east, as the hunt for Freeman persists.

Bush mentioned that over 100 properties have been searched, and numerous pieces of information have been gathered to date, including details from Freeman’s associates.

“Victoria Police remains open to any further information that might aid in a safe arrest, particularly if the individual responsible for these crimes decides to turn himself in,” Bush said.

“And we’re still very much open to that possibility and that can be arranged.”

The state’s fugitive squad forms part of the huge police operation into finding and apprehending Freeman.

“History suggests that we will find the person responsible and we will locate them and put them before the courts,” Bush added.

Police are still operating on the theory Freeman is being helped by a member of the public, Bush said.

“This scenario is very real, and we’re considering it as part of our plans. Hence, we appeal not only to the fugitive but also to his entire network of associates,” Bush continued.

“He does not deserve to be protected.”

When asked if police had considered offering a financial reward in the manhunt for Freeman, Bush said it was a possibility.

ADF joins manhunt for Freeman

The Australian Defence Force joined the hunt for Freeman earlier today.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles announced that a military planning expert and aerial surveillance resources have combined efforts with the police.

“The Australian Defence Force will work with the Victorian police, as they request our assistance in terms of the particular assets and capabilities that we have, to bring Dezi Freeman to justice,” he told ABC.

Police have said they believe Freeman, who is alleged to have shot dead two police officers who were executing a search warrant at his home in Porepunkah, regional Victoria, may be receiving help from members of the public.

Police yesterday swooped on a number of properties in the regional town of Wangaratta, about 75km from Porepunkah.

An information caravan remains in place next to the church on Ireland Street, Wangaratta, for people to offer tips and intelligence.

It is staffed by police throughout the day.

Heavily-armed officers also returned to Freeman’s property yesterday, with assets including armoured bearcat vehicles.

Superintendent Brett Kahan has called for Freeman to contact triple zero to make a “surrender plan” – along with anybody who has been harbouring or assisting him.

Retired police officer Ian Veitch told 9News police believed the help Freeman was receiving might not be a hiding place, but assistance to help him keep moving around.