Police Make Key Arrests in Wyndham Vale Attack
In a significant development in the homicide investigation of Lino Atem, who was fatally stabbed in Wyndham Vale earlier this year, detectives from Crime Command have arrested 13 individuals.
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The arrests were made following the execution of 15 warrants across Aintree, Deer Park, Manor Lakes, Sunshine West, Albanvale, Mornington, Werribee, Deanside, Hoppers Crossing, Melton South, Keilor and Braybrook, involving over 160 detectives from the Homicide Squad, Crime Command and North West Metro Region.
The arrested individuals include a 20-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing, a 22-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing, an 18-year-old man from Werribee, a 23-year-old man from Deanside, a 19-year-old man from Melton South, a 20-year-old man from Braybrook, a 17-year-old boy from the Mornington Peninsula, two 17-year-old boys and two 16-year-old boys from the northern suburbs, and a 15-year-old boy. All were interviewed by the police and have now all been released pending further enquiries and the investigation remains ongoing.
During the operation, police seized a number of items, including two motor vehicles. The arrests are part of the investigation into the death of Lino Atem, who was stabbed during a confrontation in a park on Haines Drive, near Ribblesdale Avenue, in January. Atem and two friends were attacked by another group, resulting in Atem’s death and non-life threatening injuries to his friends.
The police believe the fatal attack could have been a case of mistaken identity. In a tragic coincidence, Lino’s brother, Atem, was also a victim of a fatal shooting at his Wyndham Vale home in February 2023. However, there is no evidence to suggest the two incidents are linked.
Detective Acting Inspector Adam Shoesmith said, “Over the past two months, this matter has been subject to significant investigation by detectives from the Homicide Squad. Lino was simply enjoying a night in the park socialising with friends when he was attacked. Sadly, this is the second loss for the Atem family.”
The police are seeking information from the public regarding the incident and those involved. Anyone with information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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