Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for a transparent and thorough investigation into the tragic shooting death of nine-year-old Hania Ahmed, an Australian schoolgirl from Perth who was killed by police in Pakistan while visiting family.
Details of the Incident
Hania Ahmed, born in Australia, was with her family visiting relatives in Chakwal, Punjab province, when they were robbed late Wednesday night in their rental car. Punjab police reported that Crime Control Department officers intervened after the family was taken hostage at gunpoint. The suspects fired at an officer, leading to an exchange of gunfire. In the ensuing chaos, the officer mistakenly believed the suspects were fleeing in the victims' vehicle and fired, fatally striking Hania and injuring her father and brother. Her mother was unharmed.
Prime Minister's Response
Speaking to reporters in Canberra, Albanese expressed his condolences and stressed the need for transparency. “These circumstances do need to be examined. They need to be examined in a transparent way, so that everyone can know, the family, most importantly, but others as well,” he said. “Australia expects there to be transparency and a proper investigation of these circumstances.” He added that a nine-year-old girl visiting Pakistan with her family should have had a joyful time.
Police Admission and Action
Punjab police acknowledged that the officer deviated from standard operating procedures and legal principles on the use of force. The officer has been suspended, arrested, and remanded to judicial custody. Forensic evidence, including his weapon and spent shell casings, has been collected. Local police promised a “thorough, impartial investigation to ensure that justice is served,” stating that any failure to adhere to the principle of “minimum force” is treated with the highest accountability. The robbers were killed in a separate police encounter the following night.
Community and School Response
Hania was a year-four student at the Australian Islamic College in Kewdale, Perth. The school held a special assembly and offered counseling. Executive principal Abdullah Khan remembered her as a “happy, bubbly, friendly girl” who was well-liked. He spoke with her father, Adeel, who is devastated; the brother remains hospitalized and may need over a month to recover before traveling back to Australia.
Government Support
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance. WA Attorney General Tony Buti described the incident as a tragic case of “mistaken identity.” The Pakistani Association of Western Australia requested privacy for the family, stating they are in contact during this difficult time.
