The death of an Australian girl in a police shooting in Pakistan’s Chakwal district, Punjab province, has triggered widespread criticism worldwide. The incident, which occurred while the Perth-based family was vacationing in Pakistan, involved the girl’s killing and injuries to her father and brother in a case of mistaken identity by the police. The family, consisting of Australian nationals, was caught in a crossfire on June 10.
Adil Ahmad, accompanied by his wife Sidra Khan and children Aqan Ahmad and Hania, had arrived in Pakistan from Makkah. Ahmad recounted that while en route to a family event in Chakwal, they were robbed at gunpoint by two individuals outside the CCD’s office. Subsequently, gunfire erupted, leading the suspected robbers to seek refuge in their car. Despite Ahmad’s efforts to drive away from the firing, the vehicle was hit by numerous bullets, resulting in injuries to him, his daughter, and son. Tragically, his daughter later succumbed to her wounds.
Punjab CCD Additional IG Sohail Zafar Chatha criticized the officer’s actions, stating a significant deviation from standard procedures and legal force guidelines. This incident follows a recent case where a 22-year-old Christian motorcycle ride-hailing driver, Alyan Johnson, was severely injured in a police shooting in Rawalpindi. Johnson, who was shot multiple times by police, is currently fighting for his life. His family has demanded a fair investigation, strict accountability for the responsible parties, and compensation for the damages incurred.
