Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for a transparent investigation into the death of a nine-year-old Australian girl who was fatally shot during a police operation in Pakistan’s Punjab province.
The victim, Hania Ahmed, was visiting Pakistan with her family when armed robbers allegedly took them hostage inside their rental vehicle in the city of Chakwal on June 10.
According to Punjab Police, the suspects opened fire on a police officer after being intercepted, triggering a shootout. During the confrontation, a police officer reportedly mistook the family’s vehicle for the suspects’ getaway car and fired his weapon, fatally striking Hania and injuring her father and older brother.
The officer involved has been taken into custody pending an investigation.
Speaking to reporters in Canberra on Monday, Prime Minister Albanese stressed the need for a full and transparent inquiry into the incident.
“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,” Albanese said.
“Australia expects there to be transparency and a proper investigation of these circumstances.”
Punjab Police stated that there was “absolutely no justification for deviating from our established protocols” and confirmed that a thorough and impartial investigation is underway.
However, conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the shooting. While police claim the suspects fired first, Hania’s father told local media outlet SBS Urdu that police opened fire before the suspects.
The tragedy has sparked grief and outrage in both Australia and Pakistan.
At Australian Islamic College in Perth, where Hania was a student, staff and classmates have been left devastated by the news. School principal Abdullah Khan described Hania as a cheerful, friendly, and well-loved student.
“She had lots of friends and was very respectful to teachers. She was loved by everyone,” Khan said.
The school has arranged counselling services for students and staff, particularly for Hania’s classmates, many of whom remain in shock.
The Australian government is providing consular support to Hania’s family as they seek answers over the circumstances surrounding her death.
Authorities in Pakistan continue to investigate the incident.