Mumbai family deaths: Rat poison ingredient zinc phosphide found in viscera, watermelon sample

Mumbai family deaths: Rat poison ingredient zinc phosphide found in viscera, watermelon sample

Mumbai, Four members of a family in Pydhonie area of south Mumbai died last month due to rat poison, police officials said on Thursday.

Mumbai family deaths: Rat poison ingredient zinc phosphide found in viscera, watermelon sample

The Forensic Science Laboratory report has confirmed the presence of zinc phosphide in viscera , stomach contents, bile, and abdominal fat samples of the deceased identified as Abdulla Dokadia , his wife Nasrin and their daughters Aayesha and Zaineb , said Deputy Commissioner of Police Pravin Mundhe.

"The watermelon sample also tested positive for zinc phosphide, while all other food items were negative. The report will be studied in depth. We will consult forensic doctors. Further probe in the case is underway," the DCP said.

Zinc phosphide is used primarily as a highly toxic acute rodenticide to control rats and mice.

"The forensic experts who examined the viscera of deceased Abdulla Dokadia, Nasrin , Aayesha and Zaineb found traces of zinc phosphide. It is, however, unclear whether the rat poison was consumed accidentally . So far, we have found no strong reason why the whole family would take such an extreme step," another official said.

Further probe is being conducted by the JJ Marg police station, which has recorded statements of kin and neighbours, he added.

They suffered severe bouts of vomiting and diarrhoea in the early hours of April 26 and were rushed to a local hospital before being referred to the government-run J J Hospital where all four died during treatment.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.