MUMBAI - A Mumbai family of four died from poisoning after ingesting watermelon laced with Zinc Phosphite, a toxic chemical used in rat poison, forensic analysis revealed on Monday. The findings overturned initial assumptions of food poisoning, with authorities now probing whether the contamination was accidental or deliberate.

Abdullah Dokadia, 45, his wife Nasreen, 35, and their daughters Zainab, 13, and Ayesha, 16, consumed the watermelon at 1 am after hosting a dinner for relatives. By 5 am, all four developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea and died within hours. Autopsies later revealed a green tint in their internal organs, including the brain, heart, and intestines—a hallmark of poisoning.

Forensic tests detected Zinc Phosphite in the victims' bodies and the watermelon samples. Morphine was also found in Abdullah Dokadia’s system, though investigators are assessing whether it stemmed from medical treatment or foul play. Police had initially registered the case as accidental death but are now re-examining statements from dinner guests who remained unharmed.

Authorities have not ruled out deliberate tampering, with sources indicating the probe is focusing on how the chemical entered the fruit. The Mumbai Police crime branch is leading the investigation, with no arrests made so far.

The case will be reviewed in a special hearing on Tuesday, where forensic experts and investigators will present further findings.