Seven teenagers have been charged with murder following the deaths of two boys who were fatally attacked in Melbourne’s west earlier this month.
The victims, 15-year-old Dau Akueng and 12-year-old Chol Achiek, were allegedly assaulted by a group armed with knives and machetes shortly before 8pm on Saturday, September 6, in Cobblebank. Police said the boys were found critically injured about 200 metres apart—Chol on Marble Drive and Dau on Cobble Street. Despite emergency efforts, both boys later died from their injuries.
The shocking attack stunned the local community and triggered a major police investigation. Early this morning, police executed warrants at multiple properties around Melbourne. By 6am, seven suspects were in custody.
Victoria Police confirmed that a 19-year-old Thornhill man, two 16-year-old boys, and a 15-year-old boy have been charged with the murder of Akueng. In addition, a 19-year-old Caroline Springs man, an 18-year-old Wollert man, and another 16-year-old boy were charged with the murder of Achiek.
The arrests mark a significant development in the case, which has weighed heavily on Melbourne’s South Sudanese community. Community leader Richard Deng welcomed the news, issuing a statement shortly after police confirmed the charges.
“Today’s arrests are great news and a relief not only to the South Sudanese community but also to the wider community,” Deng said. “The arrests will renew hope and trust in Victoria Police and the government.”
Tributes continue to flow for the two young victims. Flowers, notes, and personal items remain at the sites where the boys were found, with locals and family members visiting to pay their respects. The grief has been compounded by the youth of the victims, with Achiek only 12 years old and Akueng 15.
Police have not yet confirmed the motive for the attack, though they have described it as a violent and targeted assault involving multiple offenders. Detectives are continuing to investigate whether gang affiliations or prior disputes played a role in the fatal incident.
Authorities said the accused teenagers will face court in the coming days, though some of them, due to their age, cannot be publicly identified. Police have urged the community to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation as the legal process unfolds.
The case has reignited debate in Victoria about youth crime, knife-related violence, and the responsibilities of community and government in preventing tragedies involving teenagers. Officials have pledged to work with local leaders to address underlying causes of youth violence and provide support for grieving families.
For now, the focus remains on justice for Dau Akueng and Chol Achiek, whose lives were cut short in a brutal attack that shocked Melbourne.
