Indian-Origin Man Brutally Attacked With Machete in Melbourne; 4 Teens Arrested, 1 Absconding

A 33-year-old Indian-origin man, Saurabh Anand, is recovering after surviving a brutal machete attack in Melbourne on July 19. The horrifying incident took place near the Central SquareShopping Centre in Altona Meadows while Anand was returning home from a nearby pharmacy.

Anand suffered life-threatening injuries, including a nearly severed hand, multiple fractures in his arm and spine, and severe lacerations to his head, back, and shoulders. He was rushed to Royal Melbourne Hospital, where doctors successfully reattached his hand after a complex surgical procedure. However, the long-term recovery of his hand remains uncertain.

Four Teenagers Arrested by Victoria Police

Victoria Police have arrested four teenage boys in connection with the violent machete assault.

A 14-year-old from Wyndham has been charged with intentionally causing serious injury and unlawful assault. He will appear before a children's court on August 15.

Two 15-year-olds from Hobsons Bay were released on bail and are scheduled to appear in court on August 11.

A fifth suspect remains at large, but authorities have stated that charges are expected soon.

Victim Recalls the Horrifying Attack

Speaking from his hospital bed in an interview with The Age, Anand described the moments leading up to the attack.

"I didn't hear a sound. Within seconds, they had surrounded me," he said.

One teenager searched his pockets, another punched him repeatedly in the head, and a third pressed a machete to his throat. While trying to defend himself, Anand's wrist was sliced down to the bone, leaving his hand hanging "by a thread."

Despite his injuries, Anand managed to stumble outside and call for help, after which bystanders intervened and contacted emergency services.

Demand for Justice
Anand, who is now undergoing painful recovery with screws holding together his wrist and hand, expressed disappointment that some attackers have already been released on bail.

"I'm seeking justice. I don't want anyone else to go through what I've been through," he said.

Doctors have informed him that the damage is extensive and his hand functionality remains in question.