Mumbai poison pills case: Suspect's old podcast resurfaces after alleged plot to kill 15,000

Mumbai: The investigation into the Mumbai poison pills case has widened after police began examining suspect Fayyaz Premji's past statements, international travel and alleged preparations, following claims that he planned to poison thousands during a Muharram procession.

Mumbai Police are expanding their investigation into the alleged poisoning plot uncovered during a Muharram procession in Byculla, with investigators examining the suspect's previous public statements, foreign travel history and possible motive.

The accused, identified as Fayyaz Premji, was arrested after allegedly distributing capsules containing zinc phosphide, a highly toxic substance commonly used in rat poison. Police said nearly 15,000 capsules were recovered from him.

Old podcast under scrutiny

Investigators are also examining a podcast recorded around four years ago in which Premji described himself as a "former Shia" and expressed criticism of sections of the Shia community.

According to reports, he claimed he had unsuccessfully attempted to bring reforms within the community and said he had become disillusioned after his efforts failed to gain support. He also spoke about ideological differences between Shia and Sunni Muslims and criticised what he described as orthodox religious practices.

Authorities are reviewing whether these past statements have any connection to the alleged offence. Police have not officially concluded that the podcast is linked to the case.

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Alleged poisoning plot

Police sources said Premji allegedly confessed during questioning that he intended to poison thousands of people by distributing toxic capsules during the Muharram procession. Investigators are working to independently verify these claims as part of the ongoing probe.

According to investigators, the capsules were allegedly presented as painkillers or immunity boosters before being distributed among participants.

At least 11 people reportedly consumed the capsules and later developed symptoms including vomiting and stomach pain. Authorities said all of them are currently out of danger after receiving medical treatment.

Large quantities of poison and capsules seized

Investigators said they recovered nearly 15,000 capsules from the accused and found evidence suggesting he had ordered around 30,000 empty capsules along with approximately 50 kilograms of zinc phosphide.

Police are also examining digital evidence after reports indicated the accused had researched the effects of zinc phosphide using online sources and artificial intelligence tools.

Iran visits under investigation

The probe has also focused on Premji's overseas travel history.

According to investigators, he made 19 trips to Iran and Iraq between 2019 and 2025 and had previously spent time working in Iran. His mother and sister are also reported to be living there.

Police are scrutinising his travel records and financial transactions. However, officials have not announced any evidence linking the case to a foreign conspiracy.

Police said the alleged plot was foiled after women volunteers at the Muharram procession became suspicious of Premji while he was distributing capsules.

They alerted police, who detained him before more capsules could be handed out.

Charges and ongoing probe

A case has been registered against Premji under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita relating to administering poison with intent to commit an offence.

He remains in police custody while investigators continue examining his motive, digital activity, procurement of toxic substances and other aspects of the alleged plot.