Byculla police probe terror links after Faiyaz Premji arrested with toxic capsules
The Mumbai Police have expanded their investigation into 39-year-old Faiyaz Nisar Hussain Premji, who was arrested on June 27 in Byculla for allegedly distributing toxic rodenticide capsules during a religious procession. Investigators are now probing potential terror links after discovering anti-national emails and international WhatsApp groups on the suspect's mobile phone.
The incident occurred on the evening of June 26 during the Shaam-e-Ghariba Muharram procession. The procession proceeded from Noor Baug in Dongri, crossed the Hancock Bridge, and ended at the Rahmatabad Cemetery in Reay Road. According to the police, Premji allegedly distributed capsules laced with zinc phosphide, a highly toxic rodenticide, free of cost. He reportedly told participants that the capsules were painkillers and immunity boosters.
Following his arrest by the Byculla police, Premji was remanded to judicial custody by the Mazgaon Magistrate Court after his initial police custody ended. A subsequent examination of his mobile phone revealed several allegedly anti-national emails and contact numbers linked to Iran, Iraq, and Oman. The police also found multiple international WhatsApp groups that were allegedly created by the accused.
A technical analysis of these digital communications is currently underway. Investigators are trying to determine if Premji's actions were motivated or inspired by a terrorist ideology.
The investigation has also revealed that the zinc phosphide used in the capsules was purchased from a chemical supplier based in Delhi. The Byculla police are currently examining the supplier's role and investigating who financed the purchase of the toxic substance.
The police initially registered a case under Section 123 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Following further investigations into the conspiracy, the police invoked additional charges under Sections 109 and 110 of the BNS. The investigation remains ongoing as officers continue to trace all national and international links.
