Mumbai Police have arrested a 39-year-old man from Pune for allegedly distributing capsules containing zinc phosphide, a potent rat poison, during a Muharram procession in South Mumbai on Friday night. The accused, identified as Faiyaz Premji, was found with approximately 14,000 such capsules, and police suspect a larger conspiracy behind his actions.
Suspected Poisoning Plot Averted
The incident came to light after hospital staff alerted the authorities about a patient admitted with severe vomiting and stomach cramps. The patient reported consuming a “painkiller” tablet that had been distributed during the procession. Upon suspicion, the police apprehended Premji, who allegedly admitted to intending to harm participants of the religious gathering.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jayant Meena, Premji claimed the capsules were painkillers while handing them out. He reportedly ordered 30,000 capsules online and 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide, which he then filled into individual capsules, with each containing one gram of the poison. DCP Meena stated that the swift action by the police averted a potential tragedy.
Accused’s Background and Motive Under Investigation
Premji is a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) graduate whose father owns a paint company in Pune. His mother and sister reside in Iran, and he himself had reportedly visited Iran and Iraq in 2025. Investigators are currently examining his travel history, financial transactions, and contacts to uncover the full motive and ascertain if there are any wider links to the plot.
The police are also working to determine how many people consumed the capsules and if anyone else has reported adverse health effects. Zinc phosphide is a commonly used rodenticide and is also employed as a single-dose poison in agricultural settings.
The Indian Express reported that Premji had allegedly planned to prepare 30,000 capsules, but was detained before he could distribute all of them. Other news outlets have also reported on the seizure of a large number of capsules, with some stating the quantity to be around 14,900.
The Mumbai Police are continuing their investigation into the incident, exploring all possible angles to understand the full extent of the alleged conspiracy.
The Chenab Times News Desk