A man who absconded from a mental health facility in Park Royal and was believed to pose a risk to the public has now been found.
Vasile Coceban, 36, was reported missing by staff at the Park Royal Centre for Mental Health in Acton Lane at 10:32am on Wednesday (16 April 2025).
Still images released by officers showed Vasile on the morning he went missing. He was last seen wearing a purple camouflage hooded top, grey tracksuit bottoms and light-coloured trainers. Investigators believed he had since purchased a large black rucksack and new clothing.
Later that day, at around 4:20pm, he was spotted on CCTV in a shop on Kilburn High Road. At that point, he was wearing a grey tracksuit top and a red T-shirt, and was carrying the rucksack.
Police believed he was likely still in north west London, particularly the Brent area, though enquiries indicated he may have travelled to Hyde Park in Westminster and returned, likely using the train network.
Detective Superintendent Andrew Brien, from the North West Command Unit, previously said: “A high risk missing person investigation was quickly launched when we learned of the risk posed by Vasile. It is important we return him to the facility where he is being treated.”
Following a public appeal, police confirmed that Vasile Coceban has now been found.
A police spokesperson said: “He has now been located by officers and is in custody. Thanks to those who reported on the appeal.”
