A major twist has emerged in the mysterious death of a family of four in Mumbai after forensic investigations confirmed that the victims died due to poisoning and not food poisoning caused by watermelon, as initially suspected.
Investigators have found traces of zinc phosphide, a highly toxic chemical commonly used in rat poison, in the bodies of all four victims as well as in samples of the watermelon they had consumed before falling ill.
The victims were identified as Abdullah Dokadia, 45, his wife Nasreen, 35, and their daughters Zainab, 13, and Ayesha, 16.
Family Fell Ill Hours After Eating Watermelon
According to investigators, the family had hosted relatives for dinner at their Mumbai residence and served mutton pulao. The guests reportedly left without any health issues.
Later around 1 am, the family consumed watermelon. Within a few hours, all four developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
By early morning, their condition worsened rapidly and they died within hours.
Police initially suspected food poisoning and registered a case of accidental death.
Rat Poison Chemical Found in Fruit Samples
Forensic experts later detected zinc phosphide in the victims’ bodies and in the watermelon samples collected from the house.
Doctors and investigators are now trying to determine whether the poisonous chemical entered the fruit accidentally or was deliberately mixed or injected into it.
Officials have not ruled out any possibility at this stage.
Green Tint in Internal Organs Raised Suspicion
The poisoning angle gained attention after postmortem examinations reportedly revealed that several internal organs of the victims had turned green.
Investigators said organs including the brain, heart, and intestines showed a greenish tint, which is often associated with certain types of poisoning.
The unusual findings prompted detailed toxicology tests.
Morphine Also Detected in Victim’s Body
Forensic reports also found traces of morphine in the body of Abdullah Dokadia.
Morphine is a powerful painkiller generally used in controlled medical treatment.
Investigators are now examining whether the substance was linked to prior medical treatment, accidental exposure, or any suspicious circumstances connected to the deaths.
Police Continue Probe Into Mysterious Deaths
Police have questioned relatives who attended the dinner and confirmed that none of them fell sick after eating the mutton pulao served that night.
This strengthened suspicions that the poisoning may have occurred after the guests left, possibly through the watermelon consumed later.
