3 min readUpdated: May 8, 2026 04:21 AM IST
A forensic analysis has revealed that the watermelon consumed by four members of a Mumbai family that died last month was laced with rat poison.
Zinc phosphide, commonly used in rat poison, was found in the watermelon and viscera samples of the family of four that was found dead at their Pydhonie residence in Mumbai, according to a forensic report submitted by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) to the Mumbai police on Thursday.
FSL officials said that zinc phosphide is highly toxic and would be the reason behind the killing of the family. Zinc phosphide is used to control rodents like rats and also used as a single-dose poison in agricultural fields or stored grains.
An official told The Indian Express, “We have submitted the report today. Zinc phosphide was found in two samples – the watermelon and viscera of the four deceased persons.”
The four members, Abdullah Dokadia, 40, wife, Naseem, 35, and their two daughters, Ayesha, 16, and Zainab, 13, were found dead inside their South Mumbai residence on April 26, hours after they hosted a dinner party for relatives at their home.
While everyone had dinner together, the family of four had a watermelon after midnight.
The official added, “Usually, it (zinc phosphide) is a powder, which most likely means someone cut the watermelon, sprinkled the powder following which it was consumed. However, the police will be better placed to find out what happened.”
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An officer from the Mumbai police said that they have received the report and will now probe who put the rat poison in the watermelon.
“We will investigate the case from all angles, whether it was a suicide–murder case or if it was contaminated in a agricultural field where the powder seeped through,” the official said.
The police investigation hasn’t so far uncovered any reason for the family to take the extreme step.
DCP (zone 1) Pravin Mundhe said, “ In JJ marg of 4 deaths of family , FSL has given us the report , wherein Zinc Phosphide has been found in viscera ( liver kidney spleen samples ) stomach contents , bile and abdominal fat samples taken from all deceased. Watermelon sample is also positive for Zinc Phosphide.
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While all other food items are negative for Zinc phosphide. Report will be studied in depth and enquired / consulted with forensic doctors and further investigation will be continued.”
