Major Arrest in Sydney Kidnap and Murder Investigation
A "major player" in the alleged kidnapping and murder of 85-year-old Sydney grandfather Chris Baghsarian has been arrested and charged with murder, police confirmed.
Mr. Baghsarian, a widower, was abducted from his North Ryde home on 13 February in what authorities believe was a case of mistaken identity. His body was discovered nearly two weeks later near a golf course.
New Charges and Police Statements
Two men had previously been charged in connection with the death. On Wednesday, police charged a 23-year-old man with multiple offenses, including kidnap, murder, and firearms and drug-related charges.
"He is not the highest but he is a major player in this matter," Det Chief Insp Andrew Marks told reporters.
"We will allege that he facilitated and recruited others to help in the kidnapping and detention of Mr Baghsarian," he added. "We will also allege that he arranged for people to dispose of Mr Baghsarian's body."
The 23-year-old was arrested early Wednesday at a residence in the north-west Sydney suburb of Seven Hills. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.
Alongside him, a 23-year-old woman was also arrested and charged with breaching an apprehended violence order. However, she does not face any charges related to Mr. Baghsarian's death.
Ongoing Investigation and Suspected Involvement
Detectives estimate that up to nine individuals were involved in the kidnapping and murder. Investigations are ongoing, according to Det Chief Insp Marks.
Local media reports suggest the attack may have targeted a family with connections to organized crime.
Following the kidnapping, police issued several appeals urging those responsible to safely return Mr. Baghsarian, who required daily medication due to health issues.
Last week, police released CCTV footage showing three men near a location described as a "stronghold" in Dural, on Sydney's outskirts, where Mr. Baghsarian was allegedly held after being kidnapped.
Authorities believe the recently charged 23-year-old man was one of the individuals captured in the footage.
"He was also physically involved in the kidnapping," Marks said. "He was there at the North Ryde address, and we will allege he conveyed Mr Baghsarian to the stronghold."
"Police would also present evidence he was in and around the area for the 40 hours that Baghsarian was held," Marks added.
Previous Arrests and Court Proceedings
Two men, 29-year-old Gerard Andrews and 24-year-old Daniel Stevens, were arrested and charged with kidnap and murder last month, a day after Mr. Baghsarian's body was found. They are scheduled to appear in court again in April.
