An Australian child was accidentally shot dead by police during a security operation in eastern Pakistan, an incident that has triggered an official investigation and diplomatic concern from Australia.
The tragedy unfolded in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province when police responded to reports of a robbery.
Officers reportedly engaged armed suspects who had taken control of a family’s vehicle at gunpoint.
In the confusion that followed, the situation escalated into an exchange of gunfire.
“In the ensuing chaos, the officer involved mistakenly assessed that the suspects were attempting to flee in the victims’ vehicle and discharged his weapon,” said the Punjab Police’s Crime Control Department.
It further stated, “This erroneous decision resulted in the tragic death of 10-year-old Hania and injuries to her father and brother.”
Authorities in Punjab confirmed that a criminal complaint had been lodged by the victim’s father. The officer involved has since been arrested and produced before a court, where he was remanded in custody as investigations continue. Police also said they are conducting a “thorough, impartial investigation to ensure that justice is served,” adding, “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. While our personnel operate in high-risk environments, there is no justification for a departure from our protocols.”
The family, originally from Perth in western Australia, was visiting relatives in Pakistan at the time of the incident, according to Australian media reports.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Canberra expects transparency and accountability in the investigation, stressing the seriousness of the case. “My understanding is that not only has a young girl lost her life but there have been other members of the family injured as well in circumstances which are dire indeed,” he said.
Australia’s foreign affairs ministry confirmed it is assisting the family of the deceased child and the injured relatives as both countries continue to engage over the incident.
