South Africa tour of India 2019
Mystery Deepens in Mumbai Family Deaths; Poisoning Suspected
The tragic deaths of a family of four in Mumbai have taken a new turn, with investigators now suspecting poisoning rather than contaminated watermelon. Initially believed to be a case of food poisoning, fresh forensic findings suggest a more alarming possibility.
The victims—Abdullah Dokadia, his wife Nasreen, and their daughters Zainab and Ayesha—fell ill hours after consuming food at home. While they had hosted relatives earlier and served mutton pulao, the family later ate watermelon around 1 am. By early morning, all four experienced severe vomiting and diarrhoea, leading to their deaths within hours.
Early reports blamed the watermelon, sparking public concern and even affecting fruit sales in some areas. However, forensic analysis revealed unusual findings: several internal organs, including the brain and heart, had turned green. Experts suggest this is inconsistent with typical food poisoning.
Further complicating the case, traces of morphine were found in Abdullah’s body. Authorities are now examining whether this points to medical use, accidental exposure, or deliberate poisoning. Officials from the state Food and Drug Administration have clarified that no direct link to the watermelon has been established.
Police have registered an accidental death case and are investigating all angles, including possible stress factors or external contamination. Statements from relatives who shared the meal—but remained unharmed—are also being reviewed.
Final conclusions await detailed chemical analysis of the viscera samples, leaving the case shrouded in mystery.
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