High-Risk Escapee Vasile Coceban Found After Intense Police Search in London
April 17, 2025
Police are urgently searching for Vasile Coceban, a 36-year-old man who escaped from the Park Royal Centre for Mental Health in Brent, London, on April 16, 2025.
Authorities have deemed Coceban a 'high-risk' individual, indicating he may pose a threat to public safety.
Detective Superintendent Andrew Brien emphasized the importance of returning Coceban to the facility for his treatment and called for public assistance.
Police believe Coceban is likely still in north west London, particularly in Brent, and may be sleeping rough or camping in the area.
Investigations indicate that Coceban has already traveled to Hyde Park in Westminster and back, possibly using the train network.
Following his escape, Coceban purchased a black rucksack and new clothes, later seen wearing a grey tracksuit top and a red t-shirt in a shop on Kilburn High Road.
He is described as a white male, approximately five feet four inches tall, of average build, with brown hair, and was last seen wearing a purple camouflage hooded top, grey tracksuit bottoms, and light-colored trainers.
Anyone who sees Coceban should not approach him but instead call 999, referencing case number 01/7385436/25.
Authorities have conducted extensive patrols in the area and are asking the public to check sheds or gardens and remain vigilant in parks and open spaces.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Mr. Coceban has been found, alleviating concerns about public safety.
Metropolitan Police have warned the public not to approach Coceban, as he is considered to pose a risk to public safety.
The police launched a high-risk missing person investigation upon learning of the risks posed by Coceban.
Summary based on 7 sources
Get a daily email with more UK News stories
Sources

Daily Mirror • Apr 17, 2025
'High risk' man who poses threat to public on loose as Met Police launch manhunt
Metro • Apr 17, 2025
Hunt for man who escaped mental health facility and is a 'risk to the public'
Evening Standard • Apr 17, 2025
Search for ‘high-risk’ mental health patient believed to pose risk to public