Urgent appeal after man absconds from mental health facility
He is thought to pose a risk to the public
Police have issued an urgent appeal to try and trace a man who's absconded from a mental health facility in north west London
Officers say Vasile Coceban is believed to pose a risk to the public.
The 36 year old was reported missing by staff in Brent on Wednesday morning
He is described as white, 5 ft 4 inches tall, of average build with brown hair.
Officers have released still images showing Vasile on the morning he went missing. He can be seen wearing a purple camouflage hooded top, grey tracksuit bottoms and light-coloured trainers.
Enquiries suggest that he has since bought a large black rucksack and new clothing.
While officers believe it is likely he is still in north west London, in particular Brent, enquiries suggest that since he went missing he has travelled to Hyde Park in Westminster and back again, 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.”
Anyone who sees Vasile is urged not to approach him but to call 999 instead, providing the reference 01/7385436/25.
Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.