Seven teenagers have been charged with murder following the horrific deaths of two children in Cobblebank, Melbourne.
Dau Akueng, 15 and Chol Achiek, 12, were walking home from a basketball game when they were ambushed by a group on September 6.
The pair were stabbed during the attack and died at the scene.
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Following a significant investigation, police executed search warrants on Friday morning at homes in Melton South, Thornhill Park, Caroline Springs, Sunbury, Wollert, Hillside and Sydenham.
Two 19-year-old men, an 18-year-old man, three 16-year-old boys and a 15-year-old boy were arrested.
They have now been charged with murder.
Four are charged with Dau’s alleged murder, while the other three are accused of murdering Chol.
Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien said the investigation into the boy’s deaths had been “exhaustive and complex”.
He said Friday’s arrests were the result of “diligent” police work.
“The word senseless has been used so many times already in relation to the deaths of Dau Akueng and Chol Achiek, because the reality is that it doesn’t make sense,” O’Brien said.
“Two children walking home after playing sport, who should have had decades of their lives ahead of them.
“Instead, their devastated families are grieving their loss and all the things they will never get to see two children grow up to achieve and experience.”
In the wake of the tragedy, local police have increased patrols in the Cobblebank area in a bid to reassure the community.
O’Brien acknowledged locals would be feeling shocked and concerned by the violent incident but said police were continuing to target those involved in serious crimes and put those responsible before the courts.
“Our thoughts are with the Akeung and Achiek families and we will continue to ensure all available support services remain in place at this difficult time,” he said.
The investigation into the boys’ deaths is ongoing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
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