Mumbai's Shocking Plot: Man Arrested for Poisoning Attempt During Muharram Procession
A Disturbing Conspiracy Uncovered in Mumbai
A terrifying plot has shaken Mumbai, where an individual transformed a budget hotel room in Dongri into a 'factory of death.' The suspect ordered lethal 'zinc phosphide' poison online, secretly preparing 30,000 toxic capsules. His sinister plan aimed to harm 15,000 innocent devotees participating in the Muharram procession under the guise of providing pain relief. Fortunately, the quick response of doctors and police, prompted by reports of illness among attendees, thwarted what could have been one of the most horrific tragedies in Mumbai's history.
Details of the Arrest
According to reports, 39-year-old Fayyaz Premji had been staying at a budget hotel in Dongri for about two weeks before the Muharram procession. During his stay, he allegedly ordered 30,000 empty capsules and approximately 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide through an online platform. This highly toxic chemical is typically used for rodent extermination. Authorities believe he spent several days preparing these capsules in his hotel room.
Discovery of the Poisonous Capsules
During a search, officials recovered 14,900 capsules filled with zinc phosphide from the hotel. Investigators now suspect that Premji intended to produce a total of 30,000 capsules. He reportedly confessed that his plan was to distribute these capsules disguised as pain relief medication during the Muharram procession, aiming to poison around 15,000 participants. Forensic evidence and other materials have also been seized for further investigation.
The Incident That Exposed the Plot
The case came to light when several participants in the Muharram procession consumed the capsules, which were falsely presented as painkillers. Shortly after ingestion, individuals began experiencing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, prompting doctors to alert the police. Swift action led authorities to trace the capsules back to Premji, whose arrest prevented a potential mass tragedy.
Ongoing Investigations
Since then, the investigation has expanded beyond the initial poisoning attempt. Premji, who previously operated a paint business in Pune before moving to Mumbai two years ago, is now under scrutiny for his foreign connections. Police have discovered phone numbers linked to Iran and Iraq on his mobile device and are investigating any possible ties to the case. Although no foreign links have been established yet, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Mumbai police, and other intelligence agencies are exploring all potential angles. As part of the investigation, teams from the ATS and Mumbai police visited Premji's family homes in Pune, where they learned that the family had not been in contact with him for some time.
Personal Circumstances Under Review
Initial investigations have hinted at personal issues affecting the suspect's mental state. Investigators suspect that Premji may have fallen into depression after his wife left him two years ago. However, police clarified that they are still verifying whether his personal circumstances played any role in the alleged crime, treating it as just one aspect of the investigation.
Legal Proceedings
Charges have been filed against the suspect under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including attempted murder and administering poison. Investigators are now examining his financial transactions, digital devices, online purchases, travel history, and communications to determine whether he acted alone or had assistance. Authorities have stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, and further developments are anticipated.
Social Media Reaction
🚨SHOCKING | In the name of painkillers and energy boosters, man identified as Fayyaz Premji distributed capsules containing rat poison during Muharram procession in Mumbai
— The Tatva (@thetatvaindia) June 28, 2026
Police detained him after the reports of several people falling ill. He later confessed that "HE INTENDED… pic.twitter.com/HaCLer7Sgp