Mumbai Police reported that they have disrupted an alleged scheme aimed at harming participants of a Muharram procession by confiscating 14,900 capsules purportedly filled with poison. The police detained a suspect, who allegedly intended to distribute these hazardous capsules during the religious observance, potentially leading to widespread panic and tragedy.

The man in custody has been identified as Faiyaz Premji, a resident of Viman Nagar, Pune. Authorities revealed that he operates a paint business and had recently been residing in guest accommodation in the Dongri area of Mumbai. The procession he reportedly targeted was scheduled to pass through the JJ and Byculla regions of the city.

Details of the Alleged Plot and Arrest

Investigators revealed that Premji had allegedly acquired 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide, a common rat poison, and spent several days preparing the capsules with the toxic substance. Each capsule reportedly contained around one gram of zinc phosphide, a figure that raises serious concerns about the intended harm during the religious gathering.

Police have registered a case against Premji under Sections 109, 110, and 123 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, with charges including the administration of poison and attempted murder. Investigators believe that the operation was planned on a larger scale, with Premji allegedly intending to produce around 30,000 capsules.

Investigation into Premji’s Background and Intent

Further inquiries have revealed that Premji had an extensive travel history, having visited Iran and Iraq multiple times between 2019 and 2025. Notably, he reportedly travelled to these countries 19 times in the past year alone, prompting officials to examine the purpose of these trips closely and whether they connect to a wider network.

According to police sources, Premji’s sister is employed as a physiotherapist in Iran, while his mother is also residing there. They noted that he is divorced and does not share a household with his ex-wife. Premji is identified as a Shia Khoja Muslim, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation as authorities explore the motivations behind his actions.

As part of their investigation, police are scrutinising Premji’s mobile phone records, digital transactions, and contacts to assess whether he was acting independently or was influenced by external parties. Investigators are also deliberating whether the alleged plot can be linked to a broader conspiratorial network.

Officials have reiterated their commitment to examining all facets of the case thoroughly. Based on current findings, they believe their prompt intervention was crucial in averting what could have been a catastrophic event during the Muharram procession.

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