Major Tragedy Averted in Mumbai as Police Stop Man Allegedly Distributing Poisoned Capsules During Muharram Procession
Mumbai , June 28 : What could have turned into one of Mumbai’s most horrifying mass-casualty incidents was prevented at the last moment after police detained a man accused of distributing poisonous capsules during a Muharram procession in the city. The shocking incident unfolded in the crowded Byculla area, where thousands had gathered to take part in the Ashura procession.
The accused, identified as Fayyaz Premji, was reportedly moving through the crowd near Rehmatabad Cemetery at Reay Road, handing out capsules to people and claiming they were medicines meant to boost immunity and reduce pain. In a religious gathering where people often accept food, water, or medicine from volunteers, many participants did not initially suspect anything unusual.
However, the situation quickly took a disturbing turn when several people who consumed the capsules began feeling unwell. Witnesses said some complained of stomach pain, dizziness, and vomiting shortly after taking them. Panic started to spread as at least 11 people fell ill and had to be rushed to a nearby hospital. Fortunately, doctors acted quickly, and all of them are now reported to be stable and out of danger.
As medical teams examined the matter, police launched an immediate inquiry into what the capsules contained. Preliminary findings revealed that the pills allegedly had zinc phosphide mixed inside them — a highly toxic chemical commonly used in rat poison. Experts explained that once swallowed, zinc phosphide reacts with stomach acid and releases phosphine gas, a deadly toxin that attacks the body’s vital organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain. What makes it even more dangerous is that there is no specific antidote available.
The horrifying plan, however, was uncovered before it could cause mass deaths, thanks to the courage and alertness of three women volunteers present at the procession. According to sources, one of the volunteers noticed Premji distributing the capsules in a strange and hurried manner. Sensing something suspicious, the women stopped him and questioned him.
Premji reportedly tried to convince them that the capsules were harmless immunity boosters. But unconvinced by his explanation, the volunteers decided to inspect one of the capsules themselves. When they opened it and found a suspicious powder inside, they immediately realized something was wrong.
Understanding the seriousness of the situation, they wasted no time. They alerted the police and used loudspeakers at the procession site to warn people not to consume the capsules. Their swift action helped prevent what police say could have been a devastating tragedy.
Police detained Premji on the spot and seized a large stock of capsules from him. Officials later confirmed that nearly 14,900 capsules were recovered. Investigators also found evidence suggesting he had ordered around 30,000 empty capsules and 50 kilograms of phosphorus, indicating that the operation may have been carefully planned and prepared in advance.
During interrogation, Premji allegedly confessed to police that he wanted to kill at least 15,000 people attending the Muharram gathering. This chilling statement has deeply shocked both investigators and the public.
Authorities have since discovered that the accused is a BBA graduate and had a history of foreign travel, including visits to Iran and Iraq. Investigators are now examining whether those travels have any connection to his actions or if there is a larger network involved.
A case has been registered against him at Byculla Police Station under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to causing harm by poison with criminal intent. The police are also exploring possible terror angles and whether any masterminds or supporters were involved in the conspiracy.
The incident has raised serious concerns about security during large public and religious gatherings. At the same time, it has highlighted the importance of public vigilance. Officials have openly credited the three women volunteers for their bravery and presence of mind, saying their quick response saved countless lives.
What began as a peaceful religious procession could have turned into a national tragedy. Instead, because of timely intervention, thousands returned home safely — a reminder that in moments of crisis, awareness and courage can make all the difference.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
