Gujarat: 118 Workers Fall Ill After Suspected Water Contamination at Surat Diamond Unit; Attempt to Murder Case Filed

A  major health crisis unfolded at a diamond-cutting unit in Surat’s Kapodara area after 118 workers fell ill upon consuming contaminated water, prompting authorities to register a case of attempted murder and launch a high-level investigation. The incident occurred at the Anub Gems factory, located in the Millennium Complex near Hirabaug, where over 150 employees are engaged in diamond processing. According to police officials, the situation turned dire when several workers began experiencing dizziness and nausea after drinking water from a factory-installed cooler. A foul smell was soon detected emanating from the water, leading to immediate concern. Factory management was alerted, and emergency medical help was swiftly arranged. Of the 118 affected workers, 104 were rushed to Kiran Hospital and 14 to Diamond Hospital. While most were treated for minor ailments in general wards, two individuals were admitted to the ICU in serious condition.

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During a preliminary investigation, police found a suspicious packet of Celphos (aluminium phosphide)—a highly toxic chemical commonly used as a fumigant—near the water cooler. One packet was opened, raising strong suspicions of deliberate poisoning. Another sealed packet was also recovered at the scene. Confirming the gravity of the case, Assistant Commissioner of Police V R Patel stated, “The Kapodara Police Station received the complaint this afternoon. A total of five investigation teams have been formed. They are examining CCTV footage and analyzing the chemical packet’s packaging to trace its origin.” Police have registered an attempt to murder case under Section 109(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and a forensic analysis is underway to confirm the presence and concentration of aluminium phosphide in the contaminated water. Workers recounted their harrowing experience, noting how the smell of the water quickly raised alarms. “We noticed something odd when the water started smelling strange. Later, the manager informed us that an aluminium phosphide packet had been found near the cooler, and we immediately stopped drinking the water,” said one employee.

Another worker added, “Several of us began to feel dizzy while working. The smell was unbearable, and we had no idea what was happening. We were quickly taken to the hospital after the Celphos packet was found.” Authorities have assured full transparency and swift action as the investigation continues. The motive behind the suspected poisoning remains unclear, and police have not ruled out foul play. This alarming incident has raised serious concerns over workplace safety and chemical access controls, especially in densely populated industrial hubs like Surat.