Two Teenagers Stand Trial for Alleged Murder of 15-Year-Old in Glasgow

Two teenagers are currently on trial in Glasgow, accused of the murder of 15-year-old Amen Teklay in a brutal sword attack.

The High Court in Glasgow is currently hearing the case of two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, who are accused of the murder of 15-year-old Amen Teklay. The tragic incident occurred on the evening of March 5 last year on Clarendon Street in Maryhill, where Amen was found with severe injuries and sadly succumbed to them at the scene.

The prosecution alleges that the two defendants, whose identities are protected due to their age, approached Amen while wearing masks. They are said to have brandished a frying pan and a sword or similar weapon during the altercation. The charge specifies that Amen was chased and struck with the sword, resulting in fatal injuries.

The Defendants’ Allegations and Charges

The two boys have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The 16-year-old defendant has additionally lodged a special defence of self-defenceclaiming that he acted in response to an attack by Amen, who was allegedly armed with a bladed weapon.

The 16-year-old is also facing charges related to attempting to defeat the ends of justice. It is alleged that he disposed of a blood-stained top and a sword or similar instrument on March 5, 2026, in an effort to evade detection, arrest, and prosecution. Additionally, he is accused of behaving in a threatening and abusive manner towards Amen on March 2 last year, brandishing a sword and metal barrier.

Previous Incidents and Unlawful Possession

The indictment further alleges that the 16-year-old, in conjunction with two other individuals, assaulted Amen on February 12 last year on Great Western Road. The charge includes claims of repeated punches and kicks to the head and body. Moreover, the defendant is accused of unlawful possession of a blade, specifically a sword or similar instrument, at various locations in Glasgow between March 2 and 5, 2026.

The Trial Proceedings

The trial, presided over by Lord Colbeck, commenced on Thursday with the swearing-in of the jurors. In his opening remarks, Lord Colbeck emphasized the importance of basing verdicts solely on the presented evidence. The proceedings were briefly interrupted by a fire alarm but resumed shortly afterward.

The trial is expected to last eight days, during which the jury will deliberate on the evidence presented. Amen Teklay, originally from Eritrea, was described as a bright and kind individual who lived in Glasgow with his father.