Chilling CCTV has captured the moment an elderly man was kidnapped from his home in Sydney’s northwest in what police believe was a case of mistaken identity. Chris Baghsarian, 85, was taken from his North Ryde home just before 5am on Friday, and police and loved ones say they hold grave fears for his wellbeing.
Newly released vision shows a dark Toyota pulling into Northcott Street before dawn. Two men get out, including one wearing high-vis clothing, and head towards the house. Moments later, the pair are seen forcing the elderly man across the landing as the vehicle moves into position. Witnesses reported hearing Baghsarian screaming as he was put into the car, along with the sound of glass smashing. Police said there were signs of forced entry, and the grainy footage shows the 85-year-old being pushed towards the car before the offenders drive away.
A dark Toyota SUV believed to have been used in the kidnapping was later found burnt out nearby in North Turramurra. Robbery and serious crime squad detectives are now investigating why Baghsarian was taken, and still believe he was not the intended target. Police are looking into whether the kidnappers were actually searching for a known criminal who lives nearby and has potential links to the Alameddine crime network.
NSW Police Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks said investigators believe the offenders took the wrong person. “They took Mr Baghsarian while he was at home, in his bedroom of his family home, and they took him and bundled him into a car and took him away to a location that we do not know,” he said. “Police consider that Mr Baghsarian was not the intended target.” Another officer reinforced that message publicly, saying, “Those who have him do not have the right person,”
Baghsarian’s family has no criminal connections, police said, and are distressed by what has happened. “His family are quite concerned,” Marks said. “They’re quite surprised that this has happened, and what they want is a safe return of their father.” Neighbours described Baghsarian as a widower who has lived alone for about four years.
Police also revealed they have seen a video allegedly made by the kidnappers showing Baghsarian with his face covered and his hands tied with duct tape. “We fear for the safety of the hostage and we think he may have been harmed,” Marks said. Officers say Baghsarian requires daily medication, intensifying concerns as the hours pass. “Being a hostage, we really fear for his safety and that we’re appealing for a very safe return and to get medical attention,” Marks said. “Being an 85-year-old man, we suspect that he may not be doing well.”
Police are urging anyone with information or who saw anything unusual in the area around the time of the abduction to contact authorities immediately.
