Elderly Man Believed Kidnapped from Sydney Home, Police Appeal for Help

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate 85-year-vintage Chris Baghsarian, who was reportedly taken from his North Ryde home on Friday morning. Neighbours reported witnessing the abduction to police just after 5am.

Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks of the State Crime Command’s Robbery & Serious Crime Squad addressed the media, stating that there were signs of forced entry at Mr. Baghsarian’s residence. He described the circumstances as suggesting a mistaken kidnapping, adding, “They have the wrong person.” Marks confirmed that Mr. Baghsarian requires daily medication and ongoing medical treatment, raising concerns for his wellbeing.

According to police, Mr. Baghsarian was forcibly taken from his home by up to three individuals and placed into a dark-coloured Toyota SUV. The vehicle was subsequently discovered burnt out in close proximity to his North Ryde property.

“The family is concerned and they are not involved in any criminal activity and just want the safe return of their father,” Detective Marks said. Police are currently working with the family to gather information and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The appeal for information comes amid a backdrop of recent criminal activity in the Ryde area. In December 2023, five men were charged following a foiled kidnapping attempt at a Ryde unit, where police simultaneously uncovered a significant cocaine haul estimated at $1 billion. That operation involved the arrest of Moumin Hamouda, 23, Bilal Gheneim, 19, Liam Goodhew, 24, Eldin Huric, 20, and Hussein Hamed Habeeb, 24.

Ryde Police Area Command has also recorded a number of incidents in the past year, including reports of malicious damage and assaults, as detailed in crime reports from March and April 2025. However, police have not indicated any connection between these incidents and the abduction of Mr. Baghsarian.

Mr. Baghsarian was last seen wearing a blue and maroon flannelette shirt and grey tracksuit pants. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.