Seven teenagers have been charged with murder following the stabbing deaths of two boys in Cobblebank, Melbourne, earlier this month. Dau Akueng, 15, and Chol Achiek, 12, were fatally attacked on 6 September while walking home from a basketball game.
The accused, aged between 15 and 19, were arrested on Friday morning during raids in Melbourne's north and west. A 19-year-old from Thornhill, two 16-year-olds, and a 15-year-old were charged with Dau's murder. A 19-year-old from Caroline Springs, an 18-year-old from Wollert, and a 16-year-old were charged with Chol's murder.
The three adults—Prince Conteh, 19, Peter Addo, 18, and Abel Sorzor, 19—appeared at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday and were remanded in custody until 12 December. The four minors, who cannot be named, appeared at a children's court and were also remanded in custody, with their next hearing set for 18 February.
Police said the investigation was complex due to the number of accused. Assistant Commissioner Martin O'Brien described the deaths as senseless, noting the boys were walking home after playing sport. He expressed condolences to the families, who are grieving the loss of their children.
Chol's father, Chuti Ngong, called his son a peaceful boy who loved everyone. Dau's basketball coach, Manny Hendrix, said he dreamed of playing in the NBA. Police have increased patrols in Cobblebank and are working with schools and community leaders to reassure residents.
