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Two Men Charged in Botched Kidnapping After Remains of Sydney Grandfather Identified

Police say the 85-year-old was seized by mistake in a plot aimed at a businessman’s relative, with messages showing a $50 million ransom demand.

Overview

  • Forensic testing confirmed the remains found near Pitt Town were those of Chris Baghsarian, ending a 12-day search.
  • Police arrested a 29-year-old in Kenthurst and a 24-year-old in Castle Hill, charging both with murder and kidnapping; they were refused bail and are due in Blacktown Local Court on Thursday.
  • Strike Force Chobat executed warrants in Kenthurst, Castle Hill and Lake Macquarie, seizing vehicles, electronic devices and clothing during coordinated raids.
  • Investigators forensically linked a burnt 2022 Toyota Corolla with cloned Victorian plates to Baghsarian and to a derelict Dural property where he was allegedly held.
  • Detectives say the abduction was a case of mistaken identity tied to an extortion plot targeting a businessman’s family, and they expect further arrests.