Mumbai police are investigating a suspected poisoning case after forensic tests reportedly confirmed that four members of a family died due to consumption of a toxic rodenticide rather than food poisoning.
The victims — Abdullah Dokadia, his wife Nasreen, and their daughters Zainab and Ayesha — had reportedly consumed watermelon at their residence in Mumbai after hosting relatives for dinner. Within hours, all four developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea before dying.
According to forensic findings, traces of zinc phosphite, a chemical commonly used in rat poison, were found in the bodies of the deceased as well as in samples of the watermelon consumed by the family.
Investigators are now examining whether the poisonous substance entered the fruit accidentally or was intentionally introduced. Authorities are also looking into multiple angles, including accidental contamination and possible foul play.
The case had initially been suspected to be one of food poisoning linked to watermelon consumption. Earlier forensic examinations had reportedly found a green tint in some internal organs, which later raised suspicion of poisoning.
Officials had earlier recorded statements from relatives who attended the family dinner and consumed the same meal but did not fall ill.
Experts say zinc phosphite can be extremely dangerous for humans, as it releases toxic phosphine gas after entering the stomach, potentially causing rapid organ failure.
