‘Dignity’: NSW top cop’s fury over kidnapping of 85yo Chris Baghsarian
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has revealed the kidnappers of an 85-year-old man who was abducted from his Sydney home due to suspected mistaken identity.
Chris Baghsarian was abducted from his home in North Ryde by a group of kidnappers just before 5am on Friday.
Police and his relatives are seriously concerned for his safety and believe his kidnappers have taken the wrong person, as neither Mr. Baghsarian nor his family have any connection to the crime.
Investigators made several public appeals for his safe return to his family.
Asked about the case at a press conference on Tuesday, Mr Lanyon said he had a “very clear” message to those responsible.
“This incident is a shame,” he said.
“This is clearly a case of mistaken identity and shows the disregard for individuals by those involved in organized crime.
“Despite the fact that Mr. Baghsarian has been kidnapped and has not been brought back at this stage, can I ask you to show some respect, show some dignity and ensure that Mr. Baghsarian is returned to his family, even though it is very clear that you have the wrong person?”
Reports of disturbing images and videos of the 85-year-old person have emerged in the last 24 hours.
Footage obtained by 7News allegedly shows the elderly man’s finger cut off from his hand, while others show him in a fetal position, with his hands tied and his tracksuit pants wrapped around his ankles.
Grainy CCTV footage from the morning of the abduction shows two men getting out of a dark 4WD and approaching Mr Baghsarian’s home.
The couple then pushes her towards the car before driving away.
A dark-coloured Toyota SUV believed to have been used in the kidnapping was later found burnt to the ground in North Turramurra.
NSW Police Detective Acting Inspector Andrew Marks said on Monday he believed Mr Baghsarian was still alive but police had no idea where he was.
Inspector Marks said he was “a million per cent sure” Mr Baghsarian was the wrong target.
“We truly fear for his safety as a hostage and are requesting a very safe return and medical assistance,” he said.
“As an 85-year-old man, we suspect that he is not in good condition.
“Take him to the hospital. Get him to a safe place and we’ll do the rest. We’ll get him the necessary medical treatment.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns joined calls for Mr Baghsarian’s return on Monday, saying his family was “devastated”.
“It’s not too late to end the situation. We want to say to those responsible, please – this is a man over 80 years old – please return him to his family,” Mr Minns said.
“This is a sad situation. We want to reunite Mr. Baghsarian with his family and ask anyone responsible to do so today as an act of humanity.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
