In a significant operation, Mumbai Police have thwarted a potential mass poisoning plot targeting a Muharram procession by seizing 14,900 capsules filled with zinc phosphide, a highly toxic substance commonly used as rat poison. The suspect, Faiyaz Premji, a Pune-based businessman, was detained in the early hours of June 27, 2026, in the Dongri area of Mumbai.
**Details of the Seizure**
The operation unfolded around 4 a.m. when police received reports of a participant in the Muharram procession experiencing vomiting and stomach pain. Upon investigation, authorities identified Premji distributing capsules among the crowd. A subsequent search led to the discovery of 14,900 capsules, each containing approximately one gram of zinc phosphide. Premji had allegedly procured 50 kilograms of the substance and spent several days filling the capsules at his premises. The procession was passing through the JJ and Byculla areas of Mumbai at the time.
**Background of the Accused**
Faiyaz Premji, 44, hails from Viman Nagar, Pune, where he operates a paint business. He had been residing in a guest house and dormitory in Mumbai’s Dongri area. Investigations revealed that Premji had traveled to Iran and Iraq multiple times between 2019 and 2025, with 19 visits in the past year alone. His sister works as a physiotherapist in Iran, and his mother is also currently residing there. Premji is a Shia Khoja Muslim and is divorced, living separately from his wife.
**Legal Proceedings and Charges**
Mumbai Police have registered a case against Premji under Sections 109, 110, and 123 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), encompassing charges related to administering poison and attempt to murder. Authorities are examining his mobile phone, digital records, financial transactions, and contacts to determine whether he acted alone or was influenced by any individual or organization. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain if the alleged conspiracy is linked to a larger network or if Premji acted under someone’s influence.
**Preventive Measures and Public Safety**
The timely intervention by Mumbai Police is believed to have prevented a potential large-scale incident. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant during public events and report any suspicious activities promptly. The case underscores the importance of community awareness and cooperation in ensuring public safety.
This incident adds to a series of recent events in Mumbai highlighting the dangers of toxic substances being used maliciously. In May 2026, a family of four died after consuming watermelon laced with zinc phosphide in the Pydhonie area. Forensic tests confirmed the presence of the toxic substance in both the victims’ viscera and the watermelon they consumed.
Additionally, in February 2026, two fruit vendors in Malad were arrested for applying rat poison to fruits intended for sale. The vendors claimed they used the poison to prevent rodents from damaging the produce, but authorities termed the act extremely dangerous and unlawful, citing potential health risks to consumers.
These incidents highlight the critical need for stringent monitoring and enforcement of food safety regulations to protect public health. Authorities continue to investigate the sources and distribution networks of such toxic substances to prevent future occurrences.
The Mumbai Police’s swift action in this case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring public safety and the importance of vigilance in preventing such malicious acts.
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