Mystery Behind ‘Watermelon’ Deaths Revealed

The news about the mysterious deaths of four family members in Mumbai after eating Watermelon has sent shockwaves across the country in the last week of April. Food contamination was initially suspected as the cause for these shocking deaths. But, the presence of poisonous substances identified during autopsy of their bodies hinted that there could be a bigger reason just than food poisoning.

Now, here comes the big twist in this case. As per forensic test reports, all four of them died because of a lethal rodenticide, which means that the watermelon ate by these victims contained the toxic chemical used in rat poison.

While the initial forensic tests revealed that some organs of the victims, including the brain, heart, and intestines, had turned green, the latest reports clarified that their bodies contained zinc phosphate, which ultimately killed them in a span of few hours.

Investigators are now examining whether the chemical contaminated the fruit by accident, or if it was deliberately injected. A case was already registered immediately after the deaths and investigation is currently going on with the forensic reports shedding more light on the mystery.

The shocking incident came to light when Dokadia family, residents of Ghari Mohalla on Ismail Kurte Road in south Mumbai, died on April 26th after feasting on a Biryani and Watermelon late in the night after the guests had left the party. The incident has sparked huge debate on the consequences on excessive usage of chemicals on food items, particularly fruits.

Abdul Dokadia, 44, his wife Nasreen, 35, and their daughters Ayesha, 16, and Zaineb, 13 were killed in this incident. Investigating team said no strong evidence is found so far to suggest the family took the extreme step intentionally.