Two-decade sentence for ‘vicious’ murder of blameless peacemaker
A judge has delivered a harsh rebuke to the killer of Mayiik Ring, describing the stabbing as a “vicious” and “entirely uncalled for” act that ended the life of a much-loved family man. In Melbourne’s west, Ring’s death has become a stark reminder of the consequences of violent altercations and the far-reaching impact on families and communities.
The night that changed a community
On December 30, 2022, Ring, 32, was sitting with his girlfriend, Nyaiek Anyang, and a man later identified as Malwal Aweng, near the St Albans community centre after 10pm. What began as a minor disagreement between Aweng and Anyang escalated quickly. Ring, who was trying to intervene and calm the situation, did not know that Anyang was pregnant. He stepped in to resolve the argument, only to become the victim of a more violent outcome.
According to court proceedings, Aweng grabbed a knife from Anyang’s bag and attacked. He slashed Anyang across the neck and then stabbed Ring in the abdomen. Ring staggered toward the community centre for help, collapsing at the entrance and later dying in hospital around midnight on December 31.
The legal path to justice
Aweng, 28, was on bail at the time of the attack. He fled the scene and was later apprehended, facing murder charges. He had previously admitted to manslaughter but contested that he intended to kill Ring. The case proceeded to two juries in 2024, the first unable to reach a verdict and the second ultimately returning a guilty verdict for murder on April 9. He also pleaded guilty to intentionally causing injury to Anyang, who survived but bears the emotional and physical scars of that night.
The judge’s message to the offender
Justice Andrew Tinney presided over the sentencing, expressing deep disappointment in the violent act. “These were two blameless victims who did nothing to deserve your attacks on them,” the judge said, emphasizing Ring’s role as a peacemaker during the incident. Ring’s attempt to de‑escalate a heated moment was cited as a driving motive behind the tragedy: a minor disagreement that spiralled into a fatal confrontation.
Justice Tinney highlighted Aweng’s concerning criminal history, including a prior 2017 incident outside Melbourne’s State Library in which he assaulted a man and stomped on his head. The judge underscored the need to protect the community, stating that Ring’s life was cut short for reasons that could not be justified or forgiven.
The impact on the community and family
The sentence reflects a broader concern for the safety of everyday people who try to de‑escalate conflict and support those around them. Ring’s death not only robbed his partner of a future father but also left his unborn child without a father. Anyang’s injuries serve as a permanent reminder of that night’s violence and the fragile line between dispute and disaster.
The sentence and future prospects
Aweng was sentenced to a maximum of 25 years’ imprisonment, with eligibility for parole after 19 years. He has already served more than two years of his sentence. During sentencing, Justice Tinney stressed the severity of the crime and the need for accountability. The community now looks to this verdict as a measure of justice for Ring, Anyang, and their unborn child, while acknowledging the broader trauma caused by the attack.
Looking forward
Cases like this underscore the enduring importance of non‑violence and mediation in tense situations. They also remind communities that those who choose violence will face serious consequences, and that steadfast public safety remains a priority for the justice system. Mayiik Ring’s legacy as a peacemaker endures in the memories of those who knew him and in the ongoing efforts to prevent further tragedies.
