In a chilling incident that underscores the risks of organised crime in Sydney, 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian was forcibly taken from his North Ryde home in what police believe was a case of mistaken identity. The shocking abduction, captured on CCTV, raises serious concerns for Baghsarian’s well-being, especially given his medical needs.
Abduction in Broad Daylight
On the morning of Friday, February 15, 2026, Baghsarian found himself alone in his residence when three men allegedly broke in, forcibly dragging him from his bedroom into a dark-coloured SUV. The unsettling turn of events was first alerted to police by neighbours who overheard a disturbance around 5 am. Upon arrival, officers discovered signs of an apparent struggle and forced entry, escalating fears for the elderly man’s safety.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks, who is leading the investigation, stated that it is highly likely Baghsarian was not the intended target of this brazen act. “You have the wrong person,” Marks affirmed, shedding light on the chaotic nature of the abduction. Further information is expected to be released by police in the coming days.
CCTV Footage Reveals Disturbing Details
Newly released footage from Nine News shows a dark Toyota SUV pulling up on Northcott Street shortly before the abduction. The video captures a man in high-visibility attire exiting the vehicle, accompanied by another individual. They can be seen forcibly manoeuvring the frail Baghsarian across the landing towards their getaway car, an act that starkly highlights the violence that accompanied this operation.
Authorities later located a burnt-out vehicle matching the SUV’s description in the vicinity, a grim reminder of the lengths to which criminals will go to cover their tracks. While police have not confirmed reports of video evidence showing Baghsarian tied up, the mere suggestion compounds the urgency of the situation.
Family’s Plea for Safe Return
Baghsarian’s family, who have no known connections to any criminal activity, expressed their shock and distress over his kidnapping. “They’re quite surprised that this has happened, and what they want is the safe return of their father,” Marks stated, echoing the family’s deep concern. They have made a public plea for the safe release of Baghsarian, urging the kidnappers to take him to a hospital or a secure location. “Please release Mr Baghsarian. Take him to a hospital. Take him to somewhere that’s safe, and we’ll do the rest,” Marks implored.
Living alone for nearly four years following the loss of his wife, Baghsarian’s vulnerability heightens the urgency surrounding his case.
The Broader Implications of Underworld Violence
This incident not only raises alarm about the immediate safety of an elderly man but also reflects the growing turbulence within Sydney’s criminal underbelly. The potential for collateral damage in such operations poses a significant threat to community safety, as innocents can easily become victims in the crossfire of violent disputes.
Why it Matters
The harrowing abduction of Chris Baghsarian serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive influence of organised crime in urban settings. As the community rallies for his safe return, this incident raises critical questions about public safety and the efficacy of law enforcement in combating the rising tide of violence linked to criminal enterprises. It is not just a personal tragedy; it is a societal concern that demands attention and action from authorities committed to protecting all citizens, especially the most vulnerable among us.
