In a significant ruling, ten individuals, including three brothers, were found guilty of murder following the fatal stabbing of teenager Girum Mekonnen during a group assault in a public park in Zillmere, Brisbane. The Queensland Supreme Court delivered the verdict after a judge-only trial that took place in November 2024, with the proceedings concluding recently.
Notably, all twelve defendants were charged with the murder of Mekonnen, who was 19 years old at the time of his death on September 13, 2020. Prosecutor Nathan Crane informed Justice Lincoln Crowley that the young man was attacked while socialising with others in the park, a scene that turned tragic. The court learned that the motive behind the brutal assault was allegedly a retaliation linked to a violent incident involving John Wal Wal, the brother of four of the defendants, which occurred just days before Mekonnen’s stabbing.
Justice Crowley found Kresto Wal Wal, 29, Gabreal Wal Wal, 31, and Santo Wal, 36, guilty of murder, alongside several other severe charges such as causing grievous bodily harm and unlawful wounding. Additionally, other defendants — Majok Riel Majok, Alex Edward Deng, Chan Kuchmol Kon, Joseph Lokolong, Abraham Ajang Yaak, Ben Abio, and Juma Makuol Deng Makuol — were also convicted of murder.
During the trial, it was revealed that Mekonnen had been enjoying a relaxing afternoon of drinks and cards when his assailants surrounded them, wielding weapons. Prosecutor Crane detailed the severity of the attack, highlighting that Mekonnen sustained a catastrophic stab wound to his abdomen that inflicted significant injury.
The court did acquit Yohana Wal Wal of murder and related charges, along with another defendant, Malat Akoi Makuach, 25. Justice Crowley indicated that sentencing for the guilty parties is set for March 31.
As the case concludes, it signifies a tragic chapter for the community, underlining the severe consequences of gang-related violence and the ripple effects it creates for individuals and families involved. Each of the convicted defendants maintained silence in court when given the opportunity to speak prior to sentencing, highlighting the gravity of the situation as they face the consequences of their actions.