Police Shooting in Pakistan Claims Life of Australian Child, Authorities Investigate

Fatal shooting by Punjab Police officer sparks national outcry.

Published On 15 Jun 202615 Jun 2026

Pakistani police commandos fatally shot an Australian girl and severely wounded her father and brother after mistakenly identifying them as armed thieves.

Hania Ahmed, a grade‑four student from Perth, was killed on Wednesday in Chakwal when Punjab Police Elite Force personnel opened fire, authorities said.

Her father, Adeel Ahmed, 39, and her 11‑year‑old brother, Aafan, sustained severe injuries while her mother escaped unharmed.

Police said the family were attempting to flee in their rental car after thieves tried to rob them at gunpoint.

“During the ensuing confusion, the officer mistakenly assessed that the suspects were fleeing in the victims’ vehicle and discharged his weapon,” the Punjab Police Crime Control Department said in a statement on Sunday.

“This erroneous decision resulted in the tragic death of 9‑year‑old Hania and injuries to her father and brother.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who confirmed the girl’s age as nine, told reporters that his government “expects transparency and a thorough investigation of these circumstances.” He added, “My understanding is that not only has a young girl lost her life, but other family members have also been injured in this dire situation.”

Authorities said the officer who fired on the family has been remanded in custody while the two robbery suspects were killed in a separate shootout.

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