A London court has set the trial date for Marcus Arduini Monzo, 36, who stands accused of murdering 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin in a brutal sword attack. The trial is scheduled to begin on June 3, 2025, at the Old Bailey.
Monzo is facing multiple charges in connection with the April 30, 2024, incident in Hainault, northeast London, where Daniel, a British-Nigerian schoolboy, was fatally attacked while on his way to school.
Appearing in court on May 2, 2025, Monzo pleaded not guilty to Daniel’s murder, as well as to charges of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, and aggravated burglary. However, he did admit to carrying two offensive weapons—a katana and a tanto sword—but denied possession of a kitchen knife.
Prosecutors allege the violent episode began when Monzo crashed a van into a fence, injuring a pedestrian. He then allegedly launched a deadly attack on Daniel, striking him from behind with a sword. Monzo is also accused of assaulting a man in his home and attacking two police officers during the same rampage.
Daniel, a student at Bancroft’s School in Woodford Green, was remembered by his family as a “gentle and positive” young boy. In the wake of his tragic death, a GoFundMe campaign raised over £162,000. His family intends to use the funds to establish a new home in his memory.
Monzo remains in custody as legal proceedings move forward.
