A 12-year-old boy, Chol Ahiek, who was allegedly murdered in Melbourne's outer west, was remembered during a heartfelt funeral service. The service took place at an Anglican church in Sunbury, where around 200 people gathered to honor Chol, who had aspirations of becoming a professional basketball player. He was reportedly killed alongside his 15-year-old friend, Dau Akueng, earlier this month in Cobblebank.

As mourners took their seats, Chol's coffin was carried to the front of the church for a two-hour service. The atmosphere was somber as attendees stood in silence while the coffin was later placed into a hearse. Chol's older sister, Monica Achiek, expressed her grief, stating, "Just a few weeks ago we were together, and now life looks so different without him. Losing him so suddenly has left a hole in my heart that I don't think will ever be filled. A part of me still thinks he's going to walk in with his cheeky smile and act like nothing ever happened."

Chol was born in April 2013 as the seventh child in a large Australian-South Sudanese family. He attended school in Melbourne's outer west and developed a passion for swimming, music, and basketball. Peter Madit Makuei, who delivered a eulogy, shared that Chol loved playing basketball and dreamed of becoming a professional player.

Ayak Kuany, vice president of the Nile Warriors basketball club, spoke about Chol's impact on his teammates. "You could feel the difference when he walked in the room. He was humble and always respectful. Even when things got tough — injuries, setbacks — he still showed up. He gave what he could every time," she said.

The service included emotional eulogies, hymns, and prayers, with many speakers reflecting on the shock of losing Chol at such a young age. A reverend remarked, "Chol touched everyone and the way he died has really made everyone curious about why did this happen in our community and our society. Let's pray so that something like this cannot happen again."

Chol and Dau were reportedly attacked on September 6 while returning from a basketball stadium. They were allegedly confronted by a group of masked individuals armed with machetes. Emergency services found Chol with critical injuries shortly before 8 p.m., but he died at the scene. Dau was discovered nearby with serious injuries and also succumbed to his wounds.

In connection with the incident, police have charged eight individuals, including five teenagers aged 15 and 16 and three men aged 18 and 19, with murder. Dau Akueng's funeral is scheduled for Saturday.