New South Wales detectives searched a Wildthorn Avenue property in Dural on Feb. 19 that they believe was used as a makeshift hideout in the Feb. 13 abduction of 85‑year‑old Chris Baghsarian. Police say Baghsarian may not have been the intended target, no ransom has been received, and officers believe he remains alive. CCTV footage and neighbour reports have helped direct inquiries as investigators appeal to the public for information.
Detectives Search Dural Property Linked to Kidnapping of 85-Year-Old Chris Baghsarian
Chris BaghsarianNSW Police Force/Facebook
New South Wales police say they have identified and searched a property in Dural believed to have been used as a temporary hideout in the abduction of 85‑year‑old grandfather Chris Baghsarian.
Investigation Update
Baghsarian was taken from his North Ryde home in the early hours of Friday, Feb. 13. Robbery & Serious Crime Squad detectives executed a search warrant at a Wildthorn Avenue property in Dural at about 7pm on Thursday, Feb. 19, after identifying the address during ongoing inquiries.
Australia police vehicles (stock image)NSW Police Force/Facebook
Authorities have appealed for public assistance as the intensive investigation continues. Detectives are asking anyone who saw suspicious activity in the Dural area since the prior Friday, or anyone with information about the incident, to contact investigators.
“Please release Mr. Baghsarian. Let us know where he is. We're looking to get him the medical assistance and treatment that he requires,” Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks said in a video message recorded and released by police. “Put him somewhere safe and we will do the rest.”
What Police Have Said
Police have repeatedly cautioned that Baghsarian may not have been the intended target of the offenders and say no ransom demand has been received by the family to date. Officers have expressed the belief that Baghsarian is still alive and are focused on locating him and bringing those responsible to justice.
Australia police signNSW Police Force/Facebook
Evidence and Witness Accounts
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the missing man was filmed by his captors in footage allegedly circulated by the perpetrators. CCTV footage published by the outlet reportedly shows Baghsarian near a dark Toyota SUV outside a house in the early morning of Feb. 13, followed by another person walking toward a neighbouring property. The vehicle is seen returning to the scene a few minutes later.
Neighbour Felix Cho told 9 News he called police after hearing glass breaking, dogs barking and distressed noises at the grandfather’s home that morning. “The screaming just kept on going, and then it was muffled,” Cho said, adding that he then saw a man get into a car and drive off.
Police investigations at the Dural property and wider inquiries into the disappearance are ongoing. Detectives continue to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist the investigation.
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