A nine-year-old Perth girl, Hania Ahmed, was fatally shot by police in Pakistan during a case of mistaken identity following an armed robbery. The incident occurred in Chakwal while the family was on holiday, resulting in the death of the child and injuries to her father and brother.
How did the mistaken identity occur?
The incident began when armed robbers confronted the family outside a relative’s home in Chakwal. According to a relative speaking to local media, the girl’s mother was handing over approximately 500,000 rupees ($2,500) worth of jewellery when a police officer witnessed the robbery.
The officer, who was returning to a station across the road, exchanged fire with two suspects who then fled on a motorcycle. As the family attempted to drive away in a rental car, more police officers attending the scene opened fire, believing the vehicle belonged to the suspects, according to a police official.
What is the condition of the family members?
Hania Ahmed, a student at the Australian Islamic College in Kewdale, was rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital where she was pronounced dead.
The girl’s father and brother were later transferred to Benazir Bhutto Hospital in Rawalpindi to undergo surgery. Abdullah Khan, a senior member of the Pakistani community in Western Australia, told WA Attorney-General Tony Buti that the father and brother are currently recovering.
How are officials responding to the incident?
WA Attorney-General Tony Buti expressed condolences to the family and the Pakistani community, describing the event as a “tragic situation.”
“She was on a family holiday with her parents, mum and dad and her brother,” Dr Buti said. “There was a case of mistaken identity and unfortunately, she was shot dead, which is so sad.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed the department is providing consular assistance to the family of the deceased Australian and the two injured Australians. “We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,” the spokesperson said.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
A police inquiry is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Local officials have reportedly promised to hold any individuals found responsible for the incident accountable.
The investigation may lead to a formal review of the police response once all evidence from the scene is processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the police to fire on the family?
Police believed the family’s rental car belonged to the armed robbery suspects, according to a police official.
Where did the incident take place?
The shooting occurred in Chakwal, Pakistan, while the family was visiting relatives on holiday.
What is the Australian government doing for the family?
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the family members involved.
What measures can be taken to prevent mistaken identity in emergency responses?