In a series of pre-dawn raids across Melbourne’s western suburbs, detectives executed multiple search warrants resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals, including a 15-year-old boy. These arrests relate to the ongoing investigation into the fatal stabbing of 24-year-old Lino Atem, which occurred on January 10 in Wyndham Vale.
The police responded to an altercation in a park on Haines Drive late at night, where Atem was with friends when they were confronted by another group. During this incident, Atem was fatally stabbed, while his two companions, both 27 years old, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were subsequently hospitalised.
Authorities believe that the stabbing may have stemmed from a case of mistaken identity, although the specific motivations behind the attack remain unclear. Detective Acting Inspector Adam Shoesmith remarked that the victim was simply enjoying a social outing when he was attacked and expressed the need for public assistance in gathering further information.
The operations saw over 160 detectives involved, executing 15 search warrants in a targeted effort to advance the homicide investigation. In addition to the arrests, two vehicles were seized. According to Shoesmith, the recent arrests open up new investigative avenues.
He encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, highlighting the importance of even seemingly small details that could assist in identifying the culprits. The Atem family is facing grief for a second time, as Lino’s brother was also a victim of a fatal shooting last year.
The police are urging witnesses or anyone with relevant information to reach out, reinforcing the family’s painful wait for justice as they seek answers regarding the circumstances surrounding Lino’s death.