Man held for distributing rat poison capsules during Muharram
Mumbai police arrested a 39-year-old man from Pune for allegedly distributing capsules containing zinc phosphide, a toxic rat poison, during a Muharram procession. The man, identified as Fayyaz Premji, claimed the capsules were painkillers but at least 11 people fell ill after consuming them. Police recovered nearly 15,000 capsules and are investigating his motive and any potential wider conspiracy.
Key Highlights
- Accused arrested for distributing rat poison disguised as painkillers.
- Nearly 15,000 toxic capsules seized by Mumbai police.
- Several individuals fell ill after consuming the alleged poison.
- Police are investigating the motive and potential wider conspiracy.
- The accused has a history of controversial statements against the Shia community.
Mumbai police have arrested Fayyaz Premji, a 39-year-old man from Pune, for allegedly distributing capsules containing zinc phosphide, a highly toxic substance commonly used as rat poison, during a Muharram procession in the Byculla area. The incident, which occurred during an Ashura procession, was averted from becoming a major tragedy due to the alertness of police and women volunteers at the event..
Premji allegedly presented the capsules as painkillers and immunity boosters to unsuspecting participants.. However, after consuming them, at least 11 people reported experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and stomach pain.. These individuals received medical treatment and are reported to be out of danger..
Authorities seized approximately 14,900 prepared capsules and 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide powder from Premji's possession.. Investigations revealed that Premji had ordered around 30,000 empty capsules and 50 kg of zinc phosphide online, and had been preparing the poison-filled capsules in a rented room in Dongri over approximately 15 days prior to the procession.. Each capsule was reportedly filled with one gram of zinc phosphide..
During interrogation, Premji allegedly confessed that he intended to cause mass harm and kill approximately 15,000 people.. His motive is currently under investigation, with preliminary reports suggesting a personal grievance, possibly related to his wife leaving him two years prior, leading him to feel the world had conspired against him.. Police are also exploring his past, including his business as a paint manufacturer, his travels to Iran and Iraq (19 trips between 2019 and 2025), and his mother and sister residing in Iran..
Furthermore, investigators are examining a podcast recorded about four years ago where Premji, who is Shia, described himself as a "former Shia" and expressed criticism towards certain aspects of the Shia community.. He had reportedly attempted to bring reforms within the community and expressed disillusionment.. The Khoja Shia Isna Ashari Jamaat (KSIJ) in Pune has issued a statement to debar Premji, noting his past objectionable remarks against the Shia community and stating he has not been associated with them for years..
Police are also investigating digital evidence, including AI searches conducted by Premji related to zinc phosphide, and are reviewing his financial transactions and online activities to determine if he acted alone or was part of a larger conspiracy.. The case has been registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to attempt to murder and causing hurt by poison.. The headline accuracy is confirmed as the article accurately reports the arrest of a man for distributing rat poison during a Muharram procession. The source, The Hindu, is a reputable news outlet. The news is specific to India. The news category falls under Crime and India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in connection with the Muharram poisoning incident in Mumbai?
Fayyaz Premji, a 39-year-old man from Pune, was arrested by Mumbai police for allegedly distributing capsules containing rat poison during a Muharram procession.
What substance was found in the capsules distributed during the Muharram procession?
The capsules allegedly contained zinc phosphide, a highly toxic chemical commonly used as rat poison.
What was the alleged motive behind distributing the poisonous capsules?
The accused, Fayyaz Premji, allegedly confessed to wanting to cause mass harm and kill approximately 15,000 people. Investigators are also exploring personal grievances as a potential motive.
How many capsules were seized by the police?
Mumbai police seized approximately 14,900 prepared capsules from Fayyaz Premji.
Were there any foreign links investigated in this case?
Yes, investigators are examining Premji's travel history, including numerous trips to Iran and Iraq, and his mother and sister residing in Iran, to determine any potential foreign links or involvement in a larger conspiracy.