Update – police have found the man
Metropolitan Police are urgently appealing for the public’s help to locate a man who has absconded from a mental health facility in Park Royal and is believed to pose a risk to the public.
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).
He is described as white, 5ft 4ins tall, of average build, with brown hair.
Still images released by officers show 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 believe he has 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 believe he is likely still in north west London, particularly the Brent area. However, enquiries indicate 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, 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.
“Extensive patrols have been conducted in the area where he is believed to be, but we are now appealing for the public’s help.
“It is possible that Vasile is sleeping rough or camping in the Kilburn area or nearby. Please check any sheds or gardens and keep your eyes peeled if walking in parks and open spaces.
“Your information could be key to helping us find Vasile and keeping the public safe.”
Members of the public are urged not to approach Vasile but to call 999 immediately, quoting reference 01/7385436/25.
Anyone with other information can contact police on the non-emergency number 101.
