Indian authorities say zinc phosphide, a highly toxic rat poison, was found in the bodies of four family members who died after eating watermelon during a family gathering in April. 

Peoples Gazette reported last month that Abdullah Abdul Kadar (40), his wife, Nasrin (35), and their daughters, Ayesha (16) and Zainab (13), all died after complaining of dizziness and vomiting following consumption of the fruit.

This incident prompted police in Mumbai to order postmortem examinations of the remains of the victims and food samples to determine the official cause of their deaths. 

According to The Assam Tribune, in a latest development on Thursday, police announced that a forensic science laboratory found traces of zinc phosphide in the viscera samples collected from the victims’ remains, including liver, kidney, spleen, stomach contents, bile and abdominal fat.

Additionally, samples collected from the watermelon the family had consumed also contained traces of zinc phosphide, while other food items examined by officials tested negative.

“In connection with the JJ Marg accidental death of four members of a family, the FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) has given us the report, wherein zinc phosphide has been found in the viscera,” India-based newspaper ThePrint quoted a senior Mumbai police officer as saying.

“The watermelon sample is also positive for zinc phosphide,” the officer added.

Mumbai police said they were unable to immediately determine whether the family accidentally or intentionally consumed the poison, but maintained that the investigation was still ongoing to determine the exact circumstances. 

Pravin Mundhe, the deputy commissioner of police, said, “The report will be studied in depth. We will consult forensic doctors. Further probe in the case is underway.”