Marcus Arduini Monzo Denies Murdering Daniel Anjorin in London Sword Attack

A 37-year-old man has denied killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring four others during a sword attack in northeast London last year.

Marcus Arduini Monzo appeared in court on Tuesday and claimed he was not guilty of murdering Daniel Anjorin and trying to kill four people during a violent 20-minute rampage in Hainault.

Monzo, from Newham, East London, is accused of attacking Daniel Anjorin on April 30, 2023. Prosecutors say he ran up behind the schoolboy and slashed his neck and chest with a sword. The injuries were so severe they nearly cut off Daniel’s head. Monzo also denied charges of attempted murder against four others: Donato Iwule, Sindy Arias, Henry De Los Rios Polania, and police officer Yasmin Margaret Mechem-Whitfield. He further rejected charges of wounding Inspector Moloy Campbell, aggravated burglary, and carrying a kitchen knife. However, he admitted owning two swords—a katana and a tanto katana.

Details of the Attack
The incident began when Monzo reportedly crashed a van into a fence, injuring Donato Iwule. Moments later, he allegedly attacked Daniel Anjorin, who was walking to school. Witnesses said Monzo struck Daniel from behind, leaving him bleeding on the ground. When police arrived, Monzo allegedly hid in bushes and then chased officers. He is accused of jumping out and attacking PC Mechem-Whitfield, causing serious injuries.

Monzo then entered a nearby home where Henry De Los Rios Polania and Sindy Arias were sleeping. The couple woke up to the sound of breaking glass and escaped unharmed. During the chaos, Inspector Moloy Campbell was stabbed with the sword while trying to arrest Monzo.

Family and School Mourn Daniel
Daniel’s family described him as a “loved and amazing” child. In a statement, they said, “Our hearts are broken. Daniel left for school that morning and never came home. His brothers and sisters have lost a kind and caring brother. We will always miss him.”

Bancroft’s School in Woodford Green, where Daniel was a student, called him a “bright and gentle” boy. The school said, “He worked hard in his studies and was loved by everyone. Losing someone so young is unbearable.”

Trial Set for June 3
Monzo’s trial will begin on June 3 at the Old Bailey, London’s central criminal court. If convicted, he could face life in prison. Police have urged witnesses to come forward with any information about the attack.

The case has shocked the local community. Residents of Hainault described the attack as “horrifying” and called for better safety measures. A memorial for Daniel now stands near the scene of the crime, with flowers and messages calling him a “hero.”

What Happened Next?
After the attack, police confirmed Monzo had no prior connection to the victims. Investigators are still trying to determine his motive. They found multiple weapons, including the swords he admitted owning.

The trial will focus on video footage from security cameras, witness accounts, and medical reports. Prosecutors say the evidence against Monzo is strong, but his lawyers argue he was not in control of his actions.