Chris Baghsarian: intended kidnapping target revealed
Men who mistakenly kidnapped an elderly man from his home were believed to have targeted the relative of a Sydney businessman who claimed to be the driving force behind a clothing brand linked to the Alameddine crime family.
Detectives believe Chris Baghsarian’s kidnappers instead targeted a relative of 37-year-old Dimitri Stepanyan, the armed robber and founder of Proper Streets, who lived near the 85-year-old.
Baghsarian was abducted from his home in North Ryde by a group of masked men around 5 a.m. on February 13 in what police said was a case of mistaken identity.
Baghsarian, a grandfather and widower, lived alone, and police repeatedly said he and his family had no ties to organized crime.
Stepanyan’s website describes him as a “Sydney-based entrepreneur and the creative force behind Proper Street”.
“Known for his bold vision and relentless drive, he has earned a reputation as a trendsetter in both fashion and business,” the website says.
Proper Streetwear has long been worn by alleged members of the Alameddine network, including rapper Ay Huncho, whose real name is Ali Younes. Younes frequently uses the brand’s products in his music videos and social media posts. The phrase “never pass on family”, allegedly in reference to the Alameddine family, appears on various Proper Street clothing items and features of Younes’ personal jewelry.
A police chart revealing leading figures in the Alameddine organized crime network, including Younes, was put out for tender for display at a High Court murder trial in August.
Detectives working with Strike Force Chobat have been investigating links between Baghsarian’s abduction and the Alameddine criminal network shortly after the 85-year-old was kidnapped.
Stepanyan was released from prison in October 2016 after serving seven years of a 10-year sentence for armed robbery after being convicted of stealing more than $25,000 in a 2009 armed robbery at the Forestville RSL Club.
At a rehearsal during which they “scoured the building,” he and the other defendants signed in using their real names. A guard the duo knew agreed to the shooting as part of an inside job. It has not yet been determined who fired the gun.
According to a published verdict, Stepanyan had a “significant” criminal record and was addicted to drugs, alcohol and gambling.
Messages allegedly published by SCN Worldstar between the kidnappers and Stepanyan show Baghsarian’s kidnappers demanding a ransom of $50 million.
Stepanyan managed several private companies, according to records kept by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.
reporter Contacted Stepanyan for comment. He is not accused of any involvement in Baghsarian’s kidnapping.
Dozens of police continued a massive search of dense bushland at Glenorie in Sydney’s north-western tip on Monday afternoon following reports that a burnt car linked to Baghsarian’s abduction had been spotted in the area.
Marks said hopes of finding Baghsarian alive are dwindling. The 85-year-old man needs daily medical treatment.
There was no ransom demand from Baghsarian’s family, who said last week that the 85-year-old was very loved and that he was a devoted father, brother, uncle and grandfather.
Marks said investigators have not yet identified any suspects believed to be involved in Baghsarian’s kidnapping. Detectives have expanded their appeal to members of the criminal underworld to locate Baghsarian.
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