Rat Poison Found In Watermelon: Mystery Deepens In Mumbai Family’s Death Case

Mumbai: The mysterious deaths of four members of a family in Mumbai after eating watermelon has taken a new turn. Forensic  laboratories in Kalina have confirmed that the four members of the Dokadia family in Bhendi Bazaar's Pydhonie area died not from food poisoning, but from the rat poison.

When did the incident happen?

The incident occurred on the night of April 2, when four members of the Dokadia family died after eating watermelon in Mumbai's Bhendi Bazaar area. 

The deceased were identified as included 44-year-old Abdulla Dokadia, his wife Nasreen (35), and two daughters, Ayesha (16) and Zainab (13). 

The entire family had eaten watermelon just hours before their deaths. Since then, suspicion has focused on the watermelon.

What did the forensic team say?

Now, forensic tests have found traces of zinc phosphide (rat poison) in the bodies of all four. Samples of the watermelon the family had eaten also confirmed the presence of this toxic chemical. the poison was found in the viscera (internal organs), which includes liver and kidney spleen samples as well as stomach bile and abdominal bile. 

Senior forensic officials from state forensic labs (FSL) said that, “There was no indication of external contamination on the fruit. The poison was on the inside. It is unlikely to have entered the fruit through an injection.”

How did rat poison reach the watermelon?

Investigating agencies are now trying to investigate that how this rat poison reached the watermelon. Was it due to human negligence, or was it intentionally poisoned by someone with the intention of killing the family? 

The forensic report's sensational revelations have added a new twist to the case. The police are now working to piece together the truth and get to the bottom of the matter. 

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Pune, Dr Pravin Mundhe said that "The report will be studied in depth. In consultation with forensic doctors, further investigation will be continued.”

How dangerous is zinc phosphide?

Zinc phosphide is commonly used in rat poison. This chemical is dark brown or black in color and has a garlic-like odor, which attracts rats. If a human accidentally ingests it, it can be fatal.