The tragic death of nine-year-old Hania Ahmed in Pakistan has sparked a demand for justice from her father, Adeel Ahmed. The incident, which occurred during a family visit to Pakistan, has raised questions about the effectiveness and accountability of the country's new crime control department (CCD).
In my opinion, this case highlights a deeper issue within the Pakistani police force. The CCD, established to combat crime, has instead been accused of extrajudicial killings and a lack of accountability. This raises a deeper question: How can we ensure that such departments, meant to protect and serve the public, do not become instruments of harm and injustice?
One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between the family's plea for mercy and the police's response. The family, including Hania, pleaded with the robbers not to harm them, and agreed to hand over their possessions. Yet, within seconds, the police arrived and opened fire, resulting in Hania's death. This raises a crucial point: How can we balance the need for public safety with the protection of individual rights and lives?
What many people don't realize is the historical context of such incidents in Pakistan. The CCD has been accused of adopting 'encounter killings' as a matter of policy, undermining the rule of law and constitutional safeguards. This raises a broader concern: How can we address the root causes of such practices and ensure that they do not persist in the future?
If you take a step back and think about it, the incident in Chakwal is not an isolated case. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has called for a judicial investigation into at least 924 killings by the CCD in the last eight months of 2025. This raises a critical question: How can we hold such departments accountable for their actions and ensure that they are not above the law?
A detail that I find especially interesting is the reaction of the Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese. He has called for a 'transparent and proper' investigation, which is a positive step. However, it raises a deeper question: How can we ensure that such investigations are not just symbolic but lead to meaningful change and accountability?
What this really suggests is the need for a comprehensive review of the CCD's operations and a reevaluation of its mandate. The department, meant to protect the public, has instead been accused of harm and injustice. This raises a crucial question: How can we reform such departments to ensure they serve the public interest without becoming instruments of harm?
In conclusion, the death of Hania Ahmed is a tragic reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement in Pakistan. The demand for justice from her father is a call for action and a call for a deeper understanding of the issues at play. It is my hope that this incident will lead to meaningful change and a reevaluation of the CCD's role in society.
