The number of people charged over the alleged kidnapping and murder of Sydney grandfather Chris Baghsarian has risen to 11 after police laid charges against four more men, including the suspected coordinator of the operation.
Police allege a 32-year-old man coordinated and took part in the kidnapping that ultimately led to the death of the 85-year-old, who investigators have previously said was taken in a case of mistaken identity.
Strike Force Chabot detectives arrested the man on July 8 in Lithgow, about 140km west of Sydney, after uncovering evidence linking him to the alleged plot.
He has been charged with taking or detaining in company with intention to ransom occasion actual bodily harm, and murder.
He was refused bail to reappear before Penrith Local Court on July 17.
Mr Baghsarian disappeared from his North Ryde home in the early hours of February 13, sparking an extensive police search.
His remains were discovered 11 days later near a golf club in Pitt Town in Sydney’s north-west.
Detectives have said that Mr Baghsarian was not the intended target and was allegedly abducted after offenders mistakenly identified him.
It has previously been reported that the intended target of the bungled kidnapping was believed to be relative of Sydney businessman Dimitri Stepanyan.
The latest arrests come after months of investigations by detectives attached to the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad.
Police have revealed the alleged coordinator first came to their attention during an unrelated investigation in February.
On February 23, officers from the Raptor Squad arrested the 32-year-old in Blacktown in Sydney’s west.
During a search of his vehicle, police allegedly found methylamphetamine and a pistol.
He was charged with multiple firearms and drug offences, including supplying prohibited drugs and possessing an unregistered firearm.
That matter remains before the courts.
Detectives allege further inquiries established the man had also played a central role in the kidnapping and murder investigation.
Police have also charged a 22-year-old man with taking or detaining in company with intention to ransom occasion actual bodily harm, and murder.
He was refused bail to appear before Penrith Local Court on July 17.
A further two men were arrested on Monday as part of the ongoing operation.
A 21-year-old man from Lethbridge Park has been charged with accessory before the fact to taking or detaining in company with intention to ransom occasion actual bodily harm, accessory before the fact to murder, and possessing a prohibited drug.
He was refused bail when he appeared before Mt Druitt Local Court.
A 19-year-old man has also been charged with accessory before the fact to taking or detaining in company with intention to ransom occasion actual bodily harm, and accessory before the fact to murder.
He remains in custody and is due to appear before Mt Druitt Local Court on Tuesday.
The latest arrests add to seven men who have already been charged as part of the investigation.
Police said Strike Force Chabot detectives would continue to identify those allegedly directing the kidnapping from overseas.