An 18-year-old Melbourne resident has described the harrowing experience of being attacked with machetes during an attempted theft of his e-bike in the city's outer east. The incident occurred on June 20 at approximately 6:15 p.m. in JW Manson Reserve, Wantirna.

According to the victim, who spoke to the Herald Sun after turning 18, he was stopped to check his phone when he was knocked off his e-bike from behind by two assailants. The attackers, described as masked thugs, then began swinging machetes at him while he was on the ground.

"I was extremely shocked, but I knew what was happening and managed to get up [and] run away, leaving my bike behind," the teenager stated. He reported that the attackers pursued him, with one shouting, "Oi just kill him right now" and "Quick, quick, just kill him."

During the assault, the victim sustained several slash wounds to his back and a blade was plunged into his left shoulder. He expressed his fear, saying, "I thought they were going to kill me and was begging them not to and asking them why they were doing this."

The attackers then fled on the e-bike, valued at around $10,000, and took the victim's mobile phone. The injured teenager managed to reach a nearby street, where he received assistance from passers-by before being transported to the hospital. He underwent several surgeries and spent a week recovering from his injuries, which were described as non-life-threatening.

Victoria Police have released CCTV footage showing two individuals riding through Melbourne's eastern suburbs on June 20 and are appealing for public assistance to identify the attackers. Senior Sergeant Samuel Beard of the Knox CIU called the violence "reprehensible" and "absolutely disgusting," emphasizing that any information could be crucial.

The attack occurred approximately nine months after Victoria discontinued a machete safe disposal bin program. The Victorian Government had previously stated that the program led to the removal of 14,000 weapons from the streets.

The victim believes machetes have become common among young people in Melbourne and expressed doubt about the effectiveness of current solutions to machete violence. Possession of machetes is illegal in Victoria, with penalties including up to two years in jail or a fine exceeding $48,000, unless specific exemptions apply.

Police are urging anyone with information regarding the attack to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.