Mumbai Poison Plot: Woman’s Alertness Foils Alleged Mass Poisoning Plot During Muharram in Mumbai

Mumbai Poison Plot: A major tragedy was reportedly prevented in Mumbai after a woman’s presence of mind led police to uncover an alleged mass poisoning plot during Muharram celebrations. Acting swiftly on her complaint, officers arrested the suspect and seized thousands of capsules before they could allegedly reach more people.

The incident unfolded near Rahmatabad Cemetery at Reay Road, where the accused was reportedly distributing free capsules among visitors. A woman became suspicious after receiving one of them and decided to open it. On noticing an unusual powder inside, she immediately alerted the Byculla police, who responded without delay.

Police arrested the accused, identified as Faiyaz Premji, and recovered around 14900 capsules allegedly filled with zinc phosphide, a poisonous substance commonly used as rat poison. Investigators believe nearly 15000 capsules had been prepared. Before the suspect was stopped, 11 people had reportedly consumed the capsules and later fell ill. Officials said all of them have recovered and are out of danger.

According to the investigation, the suspect initially distributed the capsules by claiming they were pain relief medicines and immunity boosters. He later allegedly threw them into the crowd while describing them as chocolates. Police suspect women were among his intended targets.

Medical experts explain that zinc phosphide reacts with stomach acids to produce a highly toxic gas that can seriously damage the heart, lungs, liver, and brain. Since there is no specific antidote for this poison, immediate medical treatment is considered critical.

Investigators also found that the accused had allegedly purchased around 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide along with empty capsules. Officials believe he filled the capsules at a guesthouse before planning their distribution. The investigation is continuing to determine whether others were involved.

Police said the accused is a graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. He previously worked at his father’s factory before spending time in Iran and Iraq. Authorities believe his family is currently living in Iran.