An 85-year-old Sydney man has become the unintended victim of a brutal kidnapping that authorities believe was a case of mistaken identity targeting someone involved in criminal activities. Chris Baghsarian, who lives alone in the North Ryde suburb, was forcibly taken from his residence in the early hours of Friday by at least three assailants and forced into a dark-colored SUV.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks revealed to reporters on Monday that the perpetrators had clearly targeted the wrong individual. ‘They were intending to take somebody, but have taken the wrong person,’ Marks stated, emphasizing that no ransom demands had been received by the distressed family. The detective made an emotional appeal for public assistance, noting that Baghsarian requires daily medication and that ‘every hour is very important’ for his wellbeing.
The situation has taken a disturbing turn with the circulation of videos and images within Sydney’s criminal underworld showing Baghsarian severely injured in an unknown location. Marks confirmed having viewed these ‘distressing’ materials showing the elderly man in poor condition.
This incident reflects a growing trend in Sydney’s organized crime landscape, where large criminal networks increasingly subcontract illegal operations, leading to frequent cases of mistaken identity. Last year, a 23-year-old plumber was fatally shot in his Condell Park driveway in what police similarly believe was a case of mistaken identity.
CCTV footage released by local media captures the moment an SUV pulls up outside Baghsarian’s home, followed by two hooded figures entering the property and emerging with a struggling individual who is then forced into the vehicle. A burned-out car matching the description of the getaway vehicle was subsequently discovered in the nearby suburb of South Turramurra.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has joined the appeal for Baghsarian’s safe return, directly addressing the kidnappers: ‘Let police know where he’s currently located or alternatively drop Mr. Baghsarian off at a shopping center, an emergency department, or even a nursing home.’
Police describe Baghsarian as wearing grey pajamas and a red-and-blue flannelette shirt at the time of the abduction and continue to investigate the intended target of the kidnapping operation.