Watermelon Safe, Not Behind Mumbai Deaths: FDA Finds No Contamination In Food

A tragic incident in Mumbai has taken a new turn as initial investigations suggest that the deaths of four family members were not caused by contaminated food. Authorities are now focusing on a possible poisoning angle while awaiting detailed toxicology reports.

The incident, which took place in the Pydhonie area on April 26, had earlier raised concerns that the family fell ill after eating biryani and watermelon.

No Contamination Found in Food Samples

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tested multiple food items consumed by the family but found no harmful substances.

A total of 11 samples were examined, including cooked biryani, watermelon, water, raw and cooked rice, chicken, dates, and spices. All results came back negative for contamination.

This has ruled out food poisoning as the cause of death, shifting the focus to other possibilities.

Postmortem Points to Possible Poisoning

The postmortem report revealed the presence of morphine, a strong pain-relieving drug, in the bodies. Investigators also noted an unusual greenish discolouration in some tissues, which may indicate exposure to a toxic substance.

These findings have raised suspicions that the deaths may have been caused by poisoning rather than accidental food contamination.

What Happened on April 26

The case came to light when Abdullah Dokadia, 40, was admitted to hospital after falling ill. He told doctors that he, his wife Nasreen (35), and their two daughters, Ayesha (16) and Zainab (13), became sick after consuming food at home.

Sadly, all four family members later died during treatment.

Following the incident, police registered an Accidental Death Report and began an investigation.

Toxicology Report Awaited

Authorities are now waiting for detailed reports from forensic laboratories, including the Kalina lab and JJ Hospital.

The toxicology report is expected to confirm whether any poisonous substance was involved and when it may have been consumed.

Investigation Exploring Multiple Angles

Police are examining all possible angles in the case. Officials have found that Abdullah Dokadia may have been a witness in a fraud case, but they have said it is too early to link this to the deaths.

So far, no suspicious financial activity or personal disputes have been identified. The family has been described as stable, with no known issues.

Authorities are also reviewing call records, digital communication, and other data, but no clear leads have emerged yet.

Forensic Findings Raise More Questions

Initial forensic analysis of viscera samples has revealed the presence of unknown external particles. However, experts have not yet confirmed whether these substances are toxic, medicinal, or harmless.

Further testing is ongoing to identify the exact nature of these particles.
The deaths of the four family members in Mumbai remain a mystery as investigations continue. While food contamination has been ruled out, the focus has now shifted to possible poisoning.

The final answers are expected to come from the toxicology report, which will play a key role in uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident.