An Australian child has been shot dead by police in eastern Pakistan during an operation responding to an armed robbery, authorities have confirmed.
The incident, which also left two members of her family injured, has prompted calls from Australia for a full and transparent investigation.
According to police in Punjab province, officers were engaged in a gunfight with robbery suspects who were allegedly holding a family at gunpoint when the tragic mistake occurred.
“In the ensuing chaos, the officer involved mistakenly assessed that the suspects were attempting to flee in the victims’ vehicle and discharged his weapon,” the Punjab Police Crime Control Department said in a statement.
The statement added that this “erroneous decision resulted in the tragic death of 10-year-old Hania and injuries to her father and brother.”
The officer involved has since been arrested and presented before a court, where he was remanded in custody following a criminal complaint filed by the victim’s family.
Australian officials confirmed the girl was from Perth and had been visiting relatives in Pakistan at the time of the incident. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government expected full accountability.
“We expect there to be transparency and a proper investigation of these circumstances,” he told reporters, noting that more than one family member was also injured in the shooting.
Australia’s foreign affairs ministry said it is providing consular assistance to the affected family.
Punjab police described the incident as deeply regrettable, adding that an internal investigation is underway.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy,” the police statement said. “While our personnel operate in high-risk environments, there is no justification for a departure from our protocols.”
The case has sparked renewed concern over police conduct during armed operations in densely populated areas.
