Hainault Sword Killer Marcos Arduini-Monzo Convicted of Murdering Teen and Attacking Police
A brutal sword rampage in Hainault has ended with Marcos Arduini-Monzo convicted of murder and multiple offences at the Old Bailey. The 37-year-old butchered 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin and seriously injured two police officers along with several civilians during a terrifying 22-minute spree.
Rampage Timeline: Terror in Hainault
- 6:45am, 30 April 2024: Monzo deliberately crashes his van into a 33-year-old man, tossing him into a garden before slashing his neck with a Samurai sword.
- 7:00am: Daniel Anjorin, walking to school in his PE kit with headphones on, is ambushed from behind and fatally attacked. His backpack later found in Monzo’s van.
- PC Yasmin Mechem-Whitfield arrives, pursues Monzo with a Taser, but he brutally attacks her, causing life-changing injuries including a fractured skull and severe nerve damage.
- Monzo breaks into a nearby home, attacks the father while a young child and mother sleep. He is finally Tasered and arrested by police on the street.
Guilty on Seven Charges at Old Bailey
After a three-week trial, Marcos Arduini-Monzo was found guilty of:
- Murder of Daniel Anjorin
- Three counts of attempted murder
- Grievous bodily harm
- Aggravated burglary
- Possession of an offensive weapon
Police Praise Bravery Amid Horrific Attack
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell said outside court:
“First in our thoughts is Daniel Anjorin – a talented, bright young man, brutally murdered simply walking to school. Monzo set out that morning under the influence of cannabis, with a clear intention to kill. His attack on Daniel was cowardly and brutal.”
“Our officers and paramedics arrived within minutes. Their bravery undoubtedly prevented further loss of life. PC Mechem-Whitfield and Inspector Moloy Campbell were seriously injured. These officers are a credit to the Met.”
Evidence and Defence: Drug-Induced Psychosis Rejected
Police forensic teams searched six crime scenes, including Monzo’s van and Canning Town home. They recovered cannabis, air pistols, and multiple mobile phones. Monzo admitted possession of two swords – a Katana and a Tanto Katana – in an earlier hearing.
The defence argued Monzo suffered drug-induced psychosis mimicking schizophrenia caused by heavy cannabis use. However, prosecutors proved his mental state was self-induced, securing a murder conviction rather than manslaughter.
Sentencing Date Set
Marcos Arduini-Monzo will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 27 June 2025. The city waits for justice to be fully delivered.
