The ’sovereign citizen’ ideology behind Australia’s most wanted man

2025-08-28

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The man alleged to have killed two police officers in the Victorian town of Porepunkah this week self-identified as a sovereign citizen. Dezi Freeman’s hatred of police and rejection of government and the law are well-documented in social media posts and court documents. Like many in the movement, Freeman’s views reportedly became more radical during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, he built a public profile, sharing his views on vaccinations, lockdowns and face masks. Investigative reporter Mah...

The man alleged to have killed two police officers in the Victorian town of Porepunkah this week self-identified as a sovereign citizen.

Dezi Freeman’s hatred of police and rejection of government and the law are well-documented in social media posts and court documents.

Like many in the movement, Freeman’s views reportedly became more radical during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, he built a public profile, sharing his views on vaccinations, lockdowns and face masks.

Investigative reporter Mahmood Fazal has documented the rise of the sovereign citizen movement for the ABC’s Four Corners program and says the beliefs held by this community pose a significant threat to Australia.

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Guest: Four Corners reporter Mahmood Fazal

Photo: AAP Image/Supplied by Youtube, Prime 7 news

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