Authorities are urgently seeking the safe return of an 85-year-old man, who was reportedly abducted in a case of mistaken identity, according to police statements.
Residents of North Ryde, a suburb in Sydney, alerted officers after hearing a disturbance early yesterday morning, around 5 a.m., at a nearby home.
When police arrived at the scene, they discovered that the homeowner, Chris Baghsarian, was missing, with clear signs of a forced entry.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks addressed the media, emphasizing that the kidnappers seized the wrong individual.
“Mr. Baghsarian was taken from his bedroom at his family residence,” Marks explained. “He was forcibly removed and driven to an unknown location.”
Police have confirmed that Mr. Baghsarian was not the intended victim of this abduction.
A dark Toyota SUV, believed to have been used in the kidnapping, was found burnt out near Baghsarian’s home.
At least three people are believed to have been involved.
Marks said Baghsarian’s family are not involved in any criminal activity and are shocked by the kidnapping.
“His family are quite concerned,” he said.
“They’re quite surprised that this has happened, and what they want is a safe return of their father.”
Marks said there are concerns for Baghsarian’s health as he needs daily medication.
“Being a hostage, we really fear for his safety and that we’re appealing for a very safe return and to get medical attention,” he said.
“Being an 85-year-old man, we suspect that he may not be doing well.”
Marks issued a message to the kidnappers, urging them to release Baghsarian.
“Take him to a hospital. Take him to somewhere that’s safe, and we’ll do the rest. We’ll get him the medical treatment that is required,” he said.
“I ask, potentially, if there’s a member of the kidnapper crew that has any common decency to tell us where he is.”
An image of Baghsarian has been released to the public, and anyone who has information or witnessed anything out of the ordinary is also urged to contact the police.
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