Mumbai Man Planned Mass Poisoning at Procession

Fayyaz Premji, a 37-year-old man from Pune, has been arrested in Mumbai for allegedly attempting to poison 15,000 individuals. Premji reportedly created thousands of capsules containing zinc phosphide, a potent rat poison, and intended to distribute them during a Muharram procession. He allegedly presented the pills as painkillers and immunity boosters to unsuspecting attendees.

At least 11 people fell ill after consuming the toxic capsules and were hospitalized, though they are now reported to be out of danger. Premji, who runs a painting business and has made numerous trips to Iran and Iraq, was apprehended on June 27. His motive remains under investigation, with authorities examining his financial records and communications to ascertain if he was part of a larger network.

The police recovered approximately 15,000 prepared capsules and the poisonous substance from a room in Mumbai's Dongri area, which Premji had rented for his preparations. The seized materials have been sent for forensic examination, and charges have been filed against Premji under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.