A Dutch national, Coen Bust, 47, who evaded authorities for nearly three weeks, was apprehended by Police Scotland in Birnam Glen near Dunkeld on March 31st. The arrest, captured on video by a local resident, brings an end to a period of anxiety and speculation within the community. Bust, who had been identified by police in previously released CCTV images wearing a distinctive orange jacket and carrying a rucksack, had been at large since mid-March after disembarking a train at Dunkeld and Birnam railway station. This location, known for its scenic beauty and popularity among families and tourists, became the unexpected backdrop for Bust’s extended hideout. Eighteen Days of Uncertainty
The extended period of Bust’s disappearance fueled concerns and speculation within the community. A local resident, who witnessed and filmed the apprehension, described a significant police presence at the scene, with up to five vehicles and an ambulance. Bust, though recognizable from the police appeal, appeared physically weakened and required assistance from officers while walking. The witness expressed relief at the capture, echoing the sentiments of many locals who had grown increasingly worried about the safety of the area, particularly given its popularity with families and visitors. Prior to his capture, some residents had speculated that Bust might have met with an accident in the glen. Prior Conviction and Delayed Sentencing
Bust’s evasion of law enforcement began on the very day he was scheduled for sentencing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. He had previously pleaded guilty in January to sending inappropriate messages to an individual he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, who was, in fact, an undercover police officer. This offense placed him on the sex offenders register. This week, following his capture, Bust finally faced sentencing in court for this crime, concluding the legal process that his weeks of hiding had interrupted. The delayed sentencing underscores the seriousness of the situation and offers a sense of closure for the community and those involved in the case. Community Response and Relief
The arrest has sparked mixed reactions within the community. While there is a palpable sense of relief at Bust’s apprehension, there is also lingering frustration over the initial police appeal, which omitted mention of Bust’s status as a convicted sex offender. This omission, despite requests from the community and local Perthshire residents to provide any information that may assist in locating him including checking CCTV and dashcam footage, generated criticism towards Police Scotland. Residents expressed anger and concern over the lack of transparency, emphasizing the potential risk to public safety, especially in areas frequented by children and families. The incident highlights the importance of clear and timely communication between law enforcement and the public, especially when matters of public safety are involved.
The extended period of Bust’s disappearance fueled concerns and speculation within the community. A local resident, who witnessed and filmed the apprehension, described a significant police presence at the scene, with up to five vehicles and an ambulance. Bust, though recognizable from the police appeal, appeared physically weakened and required assistance from officers while walking. The witness expressed relief at the capture, echoing the sentiments of many locals who had grown increasingly worried about the safety of the area, particularly given its popularity with families and visitors. Prior to his capture, some residents had speculated that Bust might have met with an accident in the glen. Prior Conviction and Delayed Sentencing
Bust’s evasion of law enforcement began on the very day he was scheduled for sentencing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. He had previously pleaded guilty in January to sending inappropriate messages to an individual he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, who was, in fact, an undercover police officer. This offense placed him on the sex offenders register. This week, following his capture, Bust finally faced sentencing in court for this crime, concluding the legal process that his weeks of hiding had interrupted. The delayed sentencing underscores the seriousness of the situation and offers a sense of closure for the community and those involved in the case. Community Response and Relief
The arrest has sparked mixed reactions within the community. While there is a palpable sense of relief at Bust’s apprehension, there is also lingering frustration over the initial police appeal, which omitted mention of Bust’s status as a convicted sex offender. This omission, despite requests from the community and local Perthshire residents to provide any information that may assist in locating him including checking CCTV and dashcam footage, generated criticism towards Police Scotland. Residents expressed anger and concern over the lack of transparency, emphasizing the potential risk to public safety, especially in areas frequented by children and families. The incident highlights the importance of clear and timely communication between law enforcement and the public, especially when matters of public safety are involved.