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Authorities are urgently calling for the safe return of an 85-year-old man who was abducted in what they believe to be a case of mistaken identity. The police are appealing to the public for assistance in resolving this distressing incident.
Residents in North Ryde, a suburb of Sydney, alerted law enforcement around 5 a.m. yesterday after hearing unusual noises coming from a nearby house. Concerned neighbors reported the disturbance, prompting a swift police response.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that the homeowner, Chris Baghsarian, was missing. Evidence at the scene indicated a forcible entry into the residence, heightening fears for Mr. Baghsarian’s wellbeing.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks addressed the media, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “It appears that the individuals responsible have mistakenly kidnapped Mr. Baghsarian,” he explained. “They entered his family home, took him from his bedroom, and forced him into a vehicle. His current whereabouts remain unknown.”
“They took Mr Baghsarian whilst 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.”
A dark Toyota SUV, believed to have been used in the kidnapping, was found burnt out near Baghsarian’s home.
At least three people are believed to have been involved.
Marks said Baghsarian’s family are not involved in any criminal activity and are shocked by the kidnapping.
“His family are quite concerned,” he said.
“They’re quite surprised that this has happened, and what they want is a safe return of their father.”
Marks said there are concerns for Baghsarian’s health as he needs daily medication.
“Being a hostage, we really fear for his safety and that we’re appealing for a very safe return and to get medical attention,” he said.
“Being an 85-year-old man, we suspect that he may not be doing well.”
Marks issued a message to the kidnappers, urging them to release Baghsarian.
“Take him to a hospital. Take him to somewhere that’s safe, and we’ll do the rest. We’ll get him the medical treatment that is required,” he said.
“I ask, potentially, if there’s a member of the kidnapper crew that has any common decency to tell us where he is.”
An image of Baghsarian has been released to the public, and anyone who has information or witnessed anything out of the ordinary is also urged to contact the police.
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