A major police operation is underway in Sydney’s northwest as authorities investigate the kidnapping of 85-year-traditional Chris Baghsarian, who has been missing for a week. The investigation has centered on a derelict property in Dural, Recent South Wales, which police believe was used as a “makeshift stronghold” by the kidnappers. The search for Mr. Baghsarian is intensifying, but authorities are expressing growing concern for his safety, with police stating “hope is fading” to discover him alive.
The case, initially believed to be a random act of violence, is now understood to be a case of mistaken identity. Police have confirmed that Mr. Baghsarian was abducted from his North Ryde home on February 13th, dragged from his property by three men and forced into an SUV. Despite appeals for his release – with police stating they were “a million per cent confident” the kidnappers had targeted the wrong man – Mr. Baghsarian has not been returned. The investigation has now expanded to include a search for a stolen Victorian car believed to be connected to the abduction, according to Sky News Australia.
Police Identify Key Crime Scene in Dural
Detectives swarmed a property on Wildthorn Avenue in Dural on Thursday evening, executing a search warrant based on images and videos circulating online that helped identify the location. The property, described as vacant and derelict, has been abandoned for several years, according to 7News. The sprawling residence, previously sold in 2017 for more than $3.7 million, includes features such as a triple-garage, home theatre, and in-ground pool.
“We have had a significant progression in the investigation, whereby we believe we have found the location where Mr Baghsarian was kept for some time,” Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks said, as reported by The Nightly. Evidence discovered at the scene suggests Mr. Baghsarian was held there at some point during the last seven days.
Hopes Dim as Search Continues
The investigation is now focused on identifying those responsible for the kidnapping and determining the motive behind the abduction. Police are appealing to the public for any information regarding suspicious activity in the Dural area over the past week. “Today we’re appealing for the people of Dural,” Detective Acting Superintendent Marks stated. “Have you seen something over the last seven days … that looks suspicious to you?”
The case has raised concerns about the potential for underworld connections, with initial reports suggesting the kidnapping may be linked to a botched criminal plot. Still, authorities have not confirmed these claims. As the search enters its second week, police acknowledge that the chances of finding Mr. Baghsarian alive are diminishing, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are continuing to follow all leads in an effort to locate Mr. Baghsarian and bring those responsible for his abduction to justice. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
What comes next is a continued, intensive search for Mr. Baghsarian and a focused effort to identify and apprehend the individuals involved in his kidnapping. The police investigation will likely expand to include further forensic analysis of the Dural property and a thorough examination of any potential links to organized crime.
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