Australian Family Devastated After Nine-Year-Old Girl Killed in Police Shooting in Pakistan
An Australian family has been left heartbroken after a nine-year-old girl was fatally shot by police in Pakistan in what authorities believe was a tragic case of mistaken identity.
Hania Ahmed was travelling with her father, Adeel Ahmed, mother, Dr Sidra Khan, and brother, Aafan Ahmed, in Chakwal, located in Pakistan’s Punjab province, when police allegedly opened fire on their rental vehicle, mistakenly believing it was being used by armed robbery suspects.
According to local reports, the family had arrived at a relative’s home late on Wednesday night when they were approached by two armed men on a motorcycle. The robbers reportedly demanded jewellery and valuables, which the family handed over.
A police officer is said to have witnessed the robbery and returned with a firearm, leading to an exchange of gunfire with the suspects, who fled the scene.
As the family attempted to leave the area, police allegedly mistook their vehicle for that of the fleeing robbers and opened fire. The car was later driven to the gate of a nearby relative’s home before crashing.
Hania was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Her father and brother sustained serious injuries and underwent surgery, while her mother escaped physical injury.
Mr Ahmed has since been discharged from hospital, while his son remains under medical care.
Pakistani authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with one police officer reportedly taken into custody. Officials have pledged a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the family and expressed its condolences following the tragedy.
Members of the Pakistani community in Western Australia have described the incident as deeply shocking. Hania, a student at the Australian Islamic College in Kewdale, has been remembered as a bright, talented and much-loved young girl.