Australian detectives arrested two men after the February abduction and killing of 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, who was taken from his North Ryde home. Authorities say Baghsarian and his family had no criminal links and believe the attack was a case of mistaken identity. Remains were found near a golf course after an extensive search, and media-circulated images reportedly showed severe injuries. Investigators say kidnappers demanded a AU$50 million ransom; police expect charges as inquiries continue.
Two Arrested in Sydney Over Alleged Kidnapping and Murder of 85-Year-Old in Suspected Case of Mistaken Identity
This handout picture released by the New South Wales Police Force on February 25, 2026, shows officers detaining a man following his arrest over the alleged kidnapping and murder of an elderly grandfather in a suspected case of mistaken identity (Handout)(Handout/NSW POLICE FORCE/AFP)
Australian detectives arrested two men on Wednesday in connection with the February abduction and killing of 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, in what investigators say appears to be a tragic case of mistaken identity.
Baghsarian was taken from his North Ryde home on February 13. Police say neither he nor his family had links to organised crime. After an extensive search, officers located his remains on Tuesday near a golf course on Sydney's northwestern outskirts.
Arrests and Investigation
New South Wales Robbery and Serious Crime Squad detectives arrested a 24-year-old and a 29-year-old in two dawn raids on Wednesday in the city’s northwestern suburbs. Commander Andrew Marks, who has led the investigation since Baghsarian’s disappearance, said he expected the men to be charged over the alleged kidnapping and murder.
Marks described the case as "a horrible, horrible matter" and told reporters: "It's somebody's worst nightmare. The fact that an innocent man was taken from his home is not acceptable. These people need to be held to account for that."
Allegations and Evidence
Local media outlets reported that photos and videos circulating online showed Baghsarian with severe injuries, including a missing fingertip. Investigators believe the kidnappers intended to seize a relative of a convicted armed robber and founder of a streetwear brand linked to the Alameddine crime network in west Sydney, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
Screenshots shared on a social media channel that follows Sydney's underworld allegedly showed the kidnappers demanding a AU$50 million (about US$35.5 million) ransom. Police said Detective Marks had seen those messages and confirmed "that was the figure that was requested." One exchange reportedly included the message: "You plugged the wrong bloke... Good luck next time."
In a statement released through police, Baghsarian’s family said they "welcome the news of the recent arrests in relation to the kidnapping of our father and grandfather" and asked that the media respect their privacy while they come to terms with the loss.
Police have not publicly confirmed formal charges at this time; inquiries remain ongoing as detectives prepare the case for possible prosecution.
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