A major tragedy was narrowly avoided during a Muharram procession in Mumbai after police arrested a man accused of distributing poisonous capsules among participants. The accused, identified as Fayyaz Premji, was detained by the Mumbai Police in the Byculla area after several people fell ill.
Police said the capsules contained Zinc phosphide, a highly dangerous chemical commonly used in rat poison.
Suspicious Capsules Distributed During Muharram Procession
The incident took place near Rehmatabad Cemetery in the Reay Road area, where thousands had gathered for the Ashura procession.
According to police, the accused was handing out capsules to people, claiming they were pain-relief medicines and immunity boosters.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Meena said, “The man had no permission to distribute any medicine. When officers became suspicious, they detained him and seized the capsules.”
At least 11 people reportedly consumed the capsules and later complained of stomach pain and vomiting. They were rushed to hospital and are now said to be out of danger.
One of the affected persons, Salman Sayyed, reportedly fell ill shortly after taking the capsule.
Women Volunteers Helped Prevent Bigger Disaster
Police said the accused was caught because of the alertness of three women volunteers at the procession.
One volunteer became suspicious after noticing him distributing capsules in an unusual way. When questioned, he allegedly claimed they were “immunity boosters.”
The women opened one capsule and found red powder inside, immediately alerting the police.
An announcement was then made over loudspeakers asking people not to consume any capsules being distributed.
Officials said this quick action may have saved thousands of lives.
14,900 Capsules Seized, More Orders Placed
Police recovered 14,900 capsules from the accused. During questioning, investigators found that he had also ordered 30,000 empty capsules and 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide.
DCP Meena said, “Each capsule had around one gram of toxic substance. If more people had consumed them, the consequences could have been disastrous.”
The seized capsules have been sent for forensic testing.
Accused Allegedly Confessed Intent
According to police sources, Premji allegedly confessed that he wanted to poison a large number of people.
Investigators revealed that he is a BBA graduate from Pune and had been staying in Mumbai for the past two weeks. His travel history to Iran and Iraq is also under investigation.
Police have registered a case under Section 123 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and are probing all angles, including whether there was any larger conspiracy behind the incident.
What Is Zinc Phosphide?
Experts say zinc phosphide is extremely dangerous. Once consumed, it reacts with stomach acid and releases phosphine gas, which can damage the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain.
Doctors say there is no direct antidote, and immediate hospital care is the only way to save a person’s life.
