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Mumbai Fruit Sellers Arrested For Using Rat Poison
25 Feb
Summary
- Two fruit sellers arrested in Malad West for applying rat poison.
- Police acted on complaint and video evidence of rat poison use.
- Substance used was Ratol, containing toxic yellow phosphorus.
In Malad West, Mumbai, two fruit vendors were apprehended on Wednesday after video evidence surfaced showing them applying rat poison to their fruit stock. Police responded to a resident's complaint, seizing a product named Ratol from the stall. This rat-killing substance contains hazardous chemicals, including yellow phosphorus.
The arrested individuals, Manoj Sangamlal Kesarwani and Rahul Sadanlal Kesarwani, reportedly admitted to using the poison to protect their overnight inventory from rats. However, health experts have strongly cautioned against this practice, highlighting the severe health consequences, including potential organ damage and fatal poisoning, if such toxic compounds contaminate edible items.
The incident has sparked public concern, with local residents urging for more rigorous and frequent inspections by food safety authorities. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) are being called upon to enhance their oversight to prevent recurrence. A case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and investigations are ongoing.
