In brief
An arrest has been made in the tragic case of Chris Baghsarian, an 85-year-old grandfather who was kidnapped and later found dead after being mistakenly targeted. Police have charged a 23-year-old man described as a 'major player' in the case, along with two others previously arrested. Investigations continue as detectives believe multiple individuals were involved in this incident linked to local organized crime.
A major player in the alleged kidnap and murder of an 85-year-old grandfather in Sydney last month has been arrested and charged with murder, police have said.
Widower Chris Baghsarian, 85, was taken from his home in North Ryde on 13 February, in what police say was a case of mistaken identity. His body was found almost two weeks later near a golf course.
Two men have already been charged in connection with his death, and on Wednesday police announced the arrest of a 23-year-old man on multiple charges including kidnap, murder, and firearms and drugs offences.
Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Marks stated, He is not the highest but he is a major player in this matter.
Police allege that the suspect facilitated and recruited others to assist in the kidnapping and detention of Mr. Baghsarian and arranged for his body to be disposed of.
The man was arrested at a home in Seven Hills early on Wednesday, was refused bail, and is set to appear in court on Thursday. A 23-year-old woman arrested simultaneously faces charges for breaching an apprehended violence order but not for Baghsarian's death.
Detectives suspect up to nine individuals may have been involved in the kidnapping and murder, indicating the depths of organized crime connections. The police are actively continuing their investigations.
Local media reports suggest the targeted attack could have been misdirected at a family connected to organized crime, rather than aimed directly at Mr. Baghsarian.
In the aftermath of the kidnapping, police made urgent pleas to the kidnappers to return Mr. Baghsarian safely due to his health problems and need for medication.
CCTV footage of three men linked to the alleged crime has been released as evidence. Police believe the arrested 23-year-old was among that trio.
Detective Marks confirmed the man was physically involved in the kidnapping and transportation of Mr. Baghsarian from his North Ryde residence to the stronghold where he was kept during his detention.
With the recent arrest, police hope to gather more intelligence and evidence in what has become a critical investigation involving multiple suspects.
Previously arrested individuals, Gerard Andrews (29) and Daniel Stevens (24), have been charged with kidnap and murder and are scheduled to appear in court again in April.
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