A wave of shock has gripped north-west Melbourne following the brutal killings of two boys by a group armed with knives and machetes. Victims Dau Akueng, 15, and Chol Achiek, 12, were attacked on Saturday, September 6, in Cobblebank while returning from a basketball game.
The boys were found critically injured about 200 metres apart – Chol on Marble Drive and Dau on Cobble Street – and tragically died at the scene.
This morning, police executed warrants across properties in Melton South, Thornhill Park, Caroline Springs, Sunbury, Wollert, Hillside, and Sydenham, arresting seven people: two 19-year-olds, one 18-year-old, three 16-year-olds, and one 15-year-old. All come from Melbourne’s north-west and will be interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien described the deaths as “senseless” and reassured the public that patrols would be increased and local community groups engaged to ensure safety.
The incident has left the community reeling, with African community advocates raising concerns for the safety of children, suggesting temporary measures to protect them. Dau’s father, Elbino Akueng, emphasized that his son was “a basketball player, not a criminal.”
