Poison Inside Watermelon, Not on Surface: New Twist in Bhindi Bazaar Family Death Case

The investigation into the death of four members of the same family in Mumbai’s Bhindi Bazaar has taken a new turn. Forensic examination has revealed that the watermelon consumed by the family before they fell ill contained rat poison in its inner portion. At the same time, no traces of zinc phosphide were found on the fruit’s outer surface.

A forensic department official said that zinc phosphide was detected in the inner portion of the watermelon during examination, though determining the exact quantity remains difficult. Traces of the substance were also found in the bodies of the deceased, but the amount could not be accurately established. This revelation has once again raised questions over whether the case involves murder or suicide, prompting police to revisit their investigation.

According to sources, zinc phosphide was not detected in the victims’ bodies during the initial medical examination and postmortem because identifying such poison at an early stage without detailed forensic analysis is extremely difficult. Forensic experts said detecting toxins like zinc phosphide without extensive testing is highly challenging, which is why investigators initially reached no clear conclusion, leading to an 11-day delay.

The forensic department conducted 54 separate tests before arriving at the findings.

The biggest question in the investigation now is how the poison got inside the watermelon. Forensic experts found traces of the toxic substance only in the fruit’s inner portion, while its outer surface appeared completely normal.

Officials said all possible angles are being scientifically examined, and every piece of evidence will be thoroughly assessed before any conclusion is reached.

During the investigation, police recovered a herbal rat repellent spray from the deceased family’s residence. Initially, investigators suspected it might contain the toxic substance, but chemical analysis found no zinc phosphide in the spray.

This has further complicated the case. Police are now trying to determine where the zinc phosphide came from and how it was introduced into the watermelon.

Following the forensic findings, police are reassessing their initial investigation. Agencies are examining whether any critical clues were overlooked in the early stages.

Sources said police are once again gathering details about the victims’ close associates, neighbours, and recent contacts. Investigators are also looking into whether the family had any personal disputes or enmity with anyone.

It remains unclear whether the deaths were the result of a collective suicide or a premeditated murder.

If the poison was introduced into the watermelon by an external person, the murder angle gains strength. However, if a family member mixed the toxic substance, the possibility of suicide cannot be ruled out.

For now, police are continuing the probe based on forensic findings, call detail records, evidence collected from the scene, and chemical analysis.