Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) The mysterious death of four members of the same family in Mumbai’s Bhendi Bazaar area remains unresolved, as the microbiology report from JJ Hospital has found no suspicious elements or signs of bacterial infection in their corpses, after consuming watermelon on Thursday. The report has now been handed over to the Mumbai Police for further investigation.

According to Mumbai Police officials, examinations of the deceased persons’ gastric contents, blood samples, and food remnants did not reveal the presence of any microorganisms or infections. The report has effectively ruled out the possibility of any infectious disease, thereby deepening the mystery surrounding the case. Investigators are now relying heavily on the forthcoming report from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), which is expected to determine the future course of the investigation.

The deceased have been identified as Naseerin Dokadia (35), Ayesha Dokadia (16), Abdullah Dokadia (44), and Zainab Dokadia (12). All four family members were admitted to different hospitals on April 26 after their health suddenly deteriorated.

According to family members, all of them had complained of vomiting after consuming watermelon the previous night. Their condition reportedly worsened rapidly soon afterward, leading to their deaths.

Police officials stated that, so far, the investigation has not uncovered any evidence suggesting criminal conspiracy or foul play. However, the exact cause of death still remains unknown. Officials said they are awaiting the toxicology and other scientific reports from the Forensic Science Laboratory to establish whether the deaths were caused by any toxic substance or other unidentified factors.

One police official stated that the FSL report is extremely important, as it is expected to clarify whether poisoning or any other external factor was responsible for the deaths.

At present, despite the microbiology report ruling out infection and finding nothing suspicious, the case continues to remain a mystery. Both the Mumbai Police and the Health Department are now waiting for the final forensic reports to uncover the actual cause behind the tragic incident.

As part of the investigation, Mumbai Police have recorded the statements of more than 10 individuals connected to the case. Statements of the four people who initially fell ill, along with the local doctor who treated them, have been documented. In addition, police have questioned everyone from the watermelon vendor to those who were present at the family gathering, and all their statements have been officially recorded.

–IANS

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