The recent incident in Mumbai involving the suspected suffocation of two youths has resulted in one person being detained by the Maharashtra Police. On September 28, 2026, it was reported that the two victims, Prabhakar Dhanivar, aged 24, and Bhavin Desai, aged 18, were declared dead after being found unconscious inside a public toilet. Senior Police Inspector Abdul Shaikh from the Vanrai Police Station indicated that the event unfolded in the early hours of the 26th, following a Ganpati immersion celebration.

According to the police, the group of friends had congregated near Mrunaltai Bridge in Ram Mandir (East) after sharing a meal. At approximately 2:30 am, both youths left to use the toilet but failed to return, prompting their friends to search for them. Upon checking, the friends discovered the two individuals unconscious and quickly contacted the authorities.

Investigation and Findings

Inspector Shaikh mentioned that upon arrival at the scene, first responders detected a strong chemical odour. Subsequent investigations pointed to a nearby electroplating factory, known as Sai Electroplate, allegedly owned by Navinchandra Chawda. It is suspected that chemical discharge from this facility caused hazardous fumes to permeate the area, ultimately leading to the tragic suffocation of the two youths.

Following the incident, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) dispatched a team, led by officer Madhurima Joshi, to assess the situation. The team inspected the locality, identifying the potential chemical leak’s source. Moreover, officials installed a Pollution Monitoring Device to measure air and pollution quality continuously over a 24-hour period.

Authorities have confirmed that a post-mortem examination of the deceased individuals has been carried out. The tragic event has sparked considerable concern regarding public safety and the environmental impact of local industrial practices.

Eyewitness Accounts and Reactions

Rohit Vairagi, a friend of both victims, recounted the events leading to their demise. He noted that the group was celebrating under the bridge when the two men decided to use the restroom. After half an hour, when they did not return, the group attempted to call them but received no response. This prompted their friends to investigate further.

Vairagi described the alarming scene upon their arrival at the toilet. He recounted that one door was open, revealing one victim unconscious inside. He and others managed to pull him out and rushed him to the Trauma Care Hospital. However, the second individual remained trapped inside, prompting them to break down the door to rescue him as well. Despite their efforts, both were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

Highlighting the potential dangers posed by the reported chemical leak, Vairagi also mentioned experiencing skin rashes, which he attributed to exposure to the hazardous environment. This incident raises significant questions regarding safety regulations and the handling of chemicals within the area.

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