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RAWALPINDI: The Lahore High Court (LHC) Rawalpindi bench has disposed of a petition seeking the transfer of the investigation into the killing of nine-year-old Hania Ahmed in Chakwal from local police to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), while directing authorities to ensure a transparent and impartial probe.
The petition was filed by the family of Hania Ahmed, a Pakistani-origin Australian girl who was killed during a police operation in Chakwal last week. The family also sustained injuries in the incident, which officials have described as a case of mistaken identity during an anti-robbery action conducted by Punjab’s Crime Control Department (CCD).
During Friday’s hearing, Justice Sadaqat Ali Khan disposed of the petition after being informed that an FIR had already been registered against the officials involved and that both departmental and legal proceedings were underway.
The court instructed provincial authorities to conduct a fair, transparent and unbiased investigation into the incident and to take strict legal action against those responsible. It emphasised that no leniency should be shown if negligence is proven.
The petitioners had expressed a lack of confidence in the local police investigation, arguing that since CCD officials are part of the same law enforcement structure, an internal inquiry could be influenced by institutional bias. They had requested that the case be transferred to an independent federal body such as the FIA to ensure neutrality.
However, the court was informed by the Punjab Additional Advocate General that legal proceedings had already been initiated and disciplinary action was in progress against the officials concerned.
The court, while disposing of the petition, reiterated the importance of institutional accountability and stressed that justice must be ensured without delay.
Authorities have already acknowledged the incident as one of “criminal negligence” and stated that no effort would be made to shield those responsible. Investigations are continuing as the case draws widespread attention and public concern.