Two face court for murder after ‘amazing person’ shot dead
Two men have faced court accused of murdering 26-year-old Kwar Ater in a targeted shooting that has shaken Melbourne’s community.
Ater was gunned down at the corner of Elizabeth and Franklin streets in the early hours of September 7. Despite being rushed to hospital, he died shortly after from his injuries.
The accused, 23-year-old Ater Koth and 22-year-old Moses Laula, appeared before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today. Koth appeared in person, while Laula joined via video link as court cells were at capacity.
Lawyers for both men requested medical attention while in custody. Laula reportedly suffered a wrist injury and required nerve medication, while Koth was said to be vulnerable due to his age and experiencing prescription drug withdrawal. Magistrate Gregory McNamara ordered that both be seen by nurses. Neither applied for bail, and both were remanded in custody until their next court appearance on January 21.
Victoria Police confirmed four men were arrested in South Melbourne with help from the Special Operations Group, though two were later released without charge as inquiries continue. Authorities have described the incident as a “targeted” attack between people known to each other.
Ater’s death has devastated his family and community. His brother, Akert Alaat, described him as “a staple in our family, a prominent figure in our community and an amazing person who touched the lives of everyone who knew him.”
Tributes have poured in from across Melbourne, with his sporting club, Point Cook Centrals, holding a candlelight vigil on September 13. Ater, a senior ruckman in the division one team, was remembered as a loyal teammate and friend who always inspired those around him.
“We are absolutely shattered and he will be deeply missed by every single one of us,” the club posted.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief, calling for an end to senseless acts of violence.
