Toxic watermelon linked to tragic deaths of parents and two children in Mumbai

A family of four in India died after eating watermelon contaminated with a toxic substance commonly used in rat poison, though investigators say the exact circumstances behind the tragedy remain unclear.

According to police in Mumbai, Abdullah Dokadia, his wife Nasreen Dokadia and their daughters Ayesha Dokadia and Zainab Dokadia were found dead in their home in the city’s Pydhonie neighborhood on April 25 after suddenly falling ill overnight.

The shocking incident quickly became known locally as the “watermelon deaths” after investigators determined the fruit was the last thing consumed by the family before they began experiencing severe symptoms.

Police said the Dokadias had hosted relatives for dinner the evening before their deaths, serving biryani during the gathering. After the guests left around 10:30 p.m., the family later ate watermelon at home, according to investigators.

Shortly afterward, all four reportedly developed vomiting and diarrhea and were rushed to a nearby hospital before being transferred to JJ Hospital. Despite medical efforts, the entire family later died.

Last week, forensic investigators revealed that zinc phosphide — a highly toxic chemical compound commonly found in rat poison — was detected in the victims’ organs as well as in watermelon samples collected during the investigation.

Dr. Vijay Thakare said the substance was discovered in viscera samples taken from the liver, kidney and spleen, along with stomach contents, bile and abdominal fat.

Mumbai police official Pravin Mundhe also confirmed that the toxic chemical was found specifically in the watermelon sample and not in any other food seized from the family’s home.

Investigators, however, remain uncertain about how the poison entered the fruit.

“We are still collecting evidence and looking at all angles for motives,” a senior police officer told the BBC. “We have not ruled out homicide, accidental death or suicide.”

Authorities noted that the building where the family lived reportedly had a rodent problem, with many residents using rat poison, repellents and glue traps to deal with infestations.

Mumbai-based physician Bhushan Rokade described zinc phosphide as an “extremely toxic chemical compound” that can prove fatal even in small amounts.

According to Rokade, the substance releases phosphine gas once ingested or exposed to moisture, preventing the body’s cells from properly using oxygen and causing severe damage to multiple organs.

Police said dozens of people — including relatives, neighbors and coworkers — have been questioned as the investigation continues into whether the deaths resulted from foul play, an accident or an intentional act.