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According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) findings, samples of the watermelon consumed by the family did not contain any harmful additives or contamination
Investigators are now probing the possibility of poisoning after forensic findings revealed traces of morphine, a potent painkiller, in the bodies of the deceased.
The mysterious deaths of four members of a family in Mumbai have taken a dramatic turn, with investigators now moving away from the initial suspicion of food poisoning caused by watermelon and focusing instead on a possible toxic substance.
Early reports had linked the deaths to consumption of watermelontriggering panic in parts of the city and a sharp drop in fruit sales. However, officials now say there is no evidence so far to support that theory. According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) findings, samples of the watermelon consumed by the family did not contain any harmful additives or contamination. This has largely ruled out the fruit as the direct cause.
ALSO READ | Mumbai Family Tragedy Linked To Watermelon Raises Questions On Fruit Safety And Combinations
The case dates back to April 27 when Abdullah Dokadia (40), his wife Naseem (35), and their daughters Ayesha (16) and Zainab (13) reportedly consumed watermelon after a meal that included Biryani, following a small gathering at home. Relatives said the four began vomiting and fell semi-conscious shortly after eating the summer fruit. They were rushed to a hospital as their condition deteriorated, but could not be saved.
Morphine Traces Raise Suspicion
Investigators are now probing the possibility of poisoning after forensic findings revealed traces of morphine, a potent painkiller, in the bodies of the deceased.
Sources told CNN-News18 that the presence of morphine points to a possible toxic ingestion, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death. DNA India reported that doctors noted that the internal organs of the victims had turned green, an unusual finding that could indicate chemical or toxic exposure.
Sources told CNN-News18 that cops are now probing where the morphine came from and how it entered the victims’ bodies. A detailed FSL report is awaited.
Bacteria Or Toxin? Angles Under Probe
While poisoning is a key line of investigation, authorities are also examining whether bacterial contamination could have played a role.
According to The Times of India, experts are evaluating all possible causes, including toxins and rare infections, as part of a comprehensive forensic analysis. Officials have stressed that final conclusions will depend on detailed post-mortem and toxicology reports.
Panic Hits Markets
The initial suspicion around watermelon triggered widespread panic among consumers, particularly in areas like Bhendi Bazaar and Pydhonie.
As reported by News18, watermelon supplies temporarily disappeared from some local markets amid fear and confusion. In other areas, prices crashed sharply, with some vendors selling the fruit for as low as Rs 5 per kg due to falling demand. Traders have since urged authorities to clarify findings quickly to restore public confidence.
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