Mumbai Police have arrested a 39-year-old businessman from Pune after allegedly recovering nearly 14,900 capsules filled with zinc phosphide, a highly toxic rodenticide, during a security operation ahead of a Muharram procession.
The suspect, identified as Faiyaz Nisar Hussain Premji (also reported as Faiyaz Premji), was apprehended in the Byculla–Reay Road area near Rehmatabad Cemetery during the Muharram security deployment. Police said the capsules were allegedly intended to be distributed as painkillers, prompting an immediate investigation into what authorities describe as a potentially serious public safety threat.
Toxic Capsules Seized During Operation
According to investigators, officers recovered approximately 14,900 capsules, each allegedly containing around one gram of zinc phosphide. Police claim the suspect had ordered nearly 30,000 empty capsules online and had also procured around 50 kilograms of the toxic chemical.
Authorities allege that the capsules were prepared to resemble ordinary medicine, raising concerns that unsuspecting recipients could have consumed them.
The seized material has been sent for forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Focuses on Motive
Police said preliminary findings suggest the suspect intended to cause large-scale harm, though investigators are still working to establish the exact motive.
Officials are examining the suspect's financial transactions, communication records, travel history, and possible links to other individuals. Reports indicate investigators are also looking into his reported visits to Iran and Iraq, although authorities have not announced any conclusions regarding those trips.
At this stage, police have not publicly confirmed the involvement of any wider network, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Security Measures Prevented a Potential Tragedy
Officials credited the timely action of Mumbai Police with preventing what could have become a major public safety incident during the Muharram procession.
The arrest was made as part of heightened security arrangements implemented for religious gatherings across Mumbai. Police have increased surveillance, intelligence gathering, and vehicle checks to ensure public safety during the observances.
Authorities have urged the public not to spread unverified claims or speculation while the investigation continues.
Zinc Phosphide: A Dangerous Toxic Substance
Zinc phosphide is commonly used as a rodenticide and is highly toxic if ingested. Exposure can result in severe poisoning and requires immediate medical attention.
Because of its dangerous nature, authorities are treating the recovered capsules as critical evidence. Forensic experts will determine the exact composition of the seized material and support the ongoing criminal investigation.
Police Continue Probe
Investigators are now working to determine whether anyone else was involved in procuring the chemicals or preparing the capsules.
Police are also tracing the online purchase of empty capsules and examining digital evidence recovered during the investigation. Additional charges may be added depending on the findings of the forensic analysis and subsequent inquiry.
Officials have assured citizens that there is no immediate threat to public safety following the seizure and have appealed for calm while the legal process moves forward.
Conclusion
The arrest of the Pune businessman and the seizure of nearly 14,900 suspected poison-filled capsules represent one of Mumbai Police's most significant preventive operations in recent months. While investigators continue to examine the suspect's alleged plans and possible connections, authorities say the swift intervention helped avert a potentially serious incident during a major public gathering.