Suspect’s Grievances Fuel Poison Capsule Distribution at Mumbai Parade

Mumbai authorities have disclosed that personal vendettas played a central role in a scheme to hand out poisonous capsules during the city's Muharram parade. The accused, 39‑year‑old Faiz Pramji, allegedly procured 30,000 empty capsules and 50 kg of zinc phosphide through an online supplier while staying at a cheap hotel two weeks prior to the procession.

In statements to police, Pramji admitted that his intention was to create disturbance rather than to kill. He claimed the capsules contained a "one‑gram dose" that would not be fatal, describing them to police as pain‑killers meant to alleviate injuries sustained during the march.

Investigators have pieced together a turbulent personal history. Pramji’s marriage fell apart four years ago, leaving him estranged from his wife. He was also reportedly shunned by his community after distributing anti‑Muslim pamphlets, an act that led religious leaders to ostracise his family.

Following the fallout, Pramji relocated to Pune with his mother, elder brother and two younger sisters, while intermittently returning to Mumbai and living in a dormitory. He holds a BBA degree and was known to consume various prescription drugs, suggesting a deteriorating mental state.

During the Muharram procession that moved through Dongri and Bhaykhla, Pramji was observed handing out the capsules from a bag. Shortly after, two participants – including Salman Saeed – reported vomiting and severe discomfort. Police intervened, seized Pramji from a Dongri hotel and retrieved 14,900 capsules filled with zinc phosphide.

The suspect remains in custody as investigators explore whether his personal grievances, family discord, and possible exposure to extremist ideologies during trips to Iraq and Iran influenced the alleged plot. A forensic examination of his mobile device is underway to trace online searches, contacts and any radical content.