Who Is Fayyaz Premji? Mumbai Man Arrested for Distributing Toxic Pills at Muharram Event

A major tragedy was allegedly averted during a Muharram procession in Mumbai after police arrested a man accused of distributing capsules laced with a deadly poison among participants. The accused, identified as Fayyaz Premji, was detained in the Byculla area after several people fell ill. During questioning, he allegedly confessed, "I wanted to kill at least 15,000 people," according to police sources.

Who Is Fayyaz Premji?

Fayyaz Premji has been identified as a BBA graduate. According to police, he has a foreign travel history and had previously visited Iran and Iraq. Investigators are now examining his background, possible associates and whether there are any terror links behind the alleged conspiracy.

A Mumbai court has remanded Premji to two days of police custody as the investigation continues. Muharram Poisoning Plot Foiled in Mumbai: 14,900 Zinc Phosphide-Laced Rat Poison Capsules Seized, Suspect Held.

What Happened at the Muharram Procession?

The incident took place during the Ashura procession near Rehmatabad Cemetery at Reay Road in Mumbai on Friday.

According to police, Premji allegedly distributed capsules to participants, claiming they were painkillers and immunity boosters. At least 11 people reportedly consumed the pills and later suffered symptoms such as vomiting and stomach pain. They were rushed to a nearby hospital and are now out of danger. How Mumbai Police Foiled Bid To Distribute Rat Poison-Filled Capsules During Muharram Procession.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Meena confirmed that the capsules contained zinc phosphide, a highly toxic chemical commonly used in rat poison.

How Was the Alleged Plot Foiled?

The alleged plan was foiled after three women volunteers noticed Premji distributing capsules in a suspicious manner. They stopped him, questioned him and alerted the police.

The volunteers also opened one of the capsules after becoming suspicious of its contents. Police were informed immediately, while announcements over loudspeakers urged people not to consume the capsules.

Police seized nearly 14,900 capsules from the accused. Officials also revealed that Premji had allegedly ordered 30,000 empty capsules and 50 kg of phosphorus.

'Wanted To Kill 15,000 People'

During interrogation, Premji allegedly admitted that he intended to target people attending the procession.

"I wanted to kill at least 15,000 people," he allegedly told investigators, according to police sources.

Authorities are now probing the motive behind the alleged act and investigating whether others were involved.

What Is Zinc Phosphide?

Zinc phosphide is a highly toxic chemical used primarily as a rodenticide. When ingested, it reacts with stomach acid to release phosphine gas, which can severely damage the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and brain.

Medical experts say there is no specific antidote for zinc phosphide poisoning. Immediate hospitalisation and supportive treatment remain the only available options for affected patients.

Investigation Underway

A case has been registered at Byculla Police Station under Section 123 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (causing hurt by means of poison with intent to commit an offence). The seized capsules have been sent for forensic examination as police continue investigating the alleged conspiracy and any possible terror angle.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 28, 2026 10:44 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).