Australian girl, 9, killed in Pakistan after Police “Mistakenly” open fire during robbery rescue operation
A 9-year-old Australian girl of Pakistani origin was killed in Pakistan’s Punjab province after police allegedly opened fire on a family vehicle during an operation against armed robbers, in what authorities described as a case of mistaken identity.
The incident took place in Chakwal district, around 300 km from Lahore, when the family was reportedly travelling in a rental car during a holiday visit. According to police accounts, armed robbers had earlier taken the family hostage before a rescue operation was launched.
During the operation, a shootout broke out between police and the suspects. Authorities said officers mistakenly believed the family’s vehicle was being used by fleeing robbers and opened fire, resulting in the death of 9-year-old Hania Ahmed and injuries to her father and brother.
The family, originally from Australia, had travelled to Pakistan after performing religious pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, according to local reports. The injured were rushed to hospital, where the child was declared dead.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for a transparent and thorough investigation into the incident, stressing the need for accountability and clarity. Australia’s foreign affairs department has also confirmed that it is providing assistance to the grieving family.
Punjab police have acknowledged that protocol deviations are being reviewed and an internal investigation is underway. Authorities also stated that the two alleged robbers involved in the case were later killed in a separate encounter.
The tragic incident has sparked debate over police conduct and operational procedures in the region, with calls for stricter safeguards to prevent civilian casualties during high-risk operations.
