Seven teens arrested over Melbourne stabbings that killed two boys, police say

Seven teenagers have been arrested in connection with the stabbing deaths of two boys who were walking home from a basketball game in Melbourne. Dau Akueng, 15, and Chol Achiek, 12, were found critically injured in Cobblebank on the night of September 6 and died at the scene, authorities said.

Victoria Police said the arrests followed an exhaustive two-week inquiry by the Homicide Squad, with search warrants executed at eight homes across Melbourne in the early hours of Friday. The detainees include two men—aged 19 and 18—and five others: a 15-year-old and three 16-year-olds, all from the north-west region of Melbourne. The seven teens are in custody and being interviewed by investigators.

"This has been an exhaustive and complex criminal investigation led by the Homicide Squad, which has attracted significant community interest," Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien said. "Over the past two weeks those detectives have worked tirelessly and methodically to identify those involved in an effort to ultimately put ourselves in the best possible position to put people before the court. Today’s arrests are the result of diligent, thorough policework – much of it performed behind-the-scenes and through building sound, reliable evidence."

Police have ramped up patrols in Cobblebank in response to community concerns. "The impacts of these deaths, in particular Dau and Chol’s, are felt right through our communities – from the families who have lost their loved one, through to the loss of safety that many people feel as a result, even when they don’t know those involved," Commissioner O’Brien added. "I know many people will be feeling shocked, frustrated and concerned in light of this matter. I want to reassure you that locally, police will have increased patrols in the area and are working closely with community groups."

Authorities say the killings may be linked to a meme referencing the stabbing death of a young gang member killed late last year. Police reiterated that the investigation remains ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.