MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY STATEMENT
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through its Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), is providing an update following the tragic death of 14-year-old Aleena Preetam, which occurred between February 22 and 23, 2026, just weeks after she gave birth to a baby girl.
Investigations indicate the potential involvement of a teenage boy, under the age of 18, as the father of the baby. DNA tests have been scheduled to determine paternity, and the newborn has been placed into the foster care system. The CPA is collaborating with the Guyana Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution regarding the next steps.
When the CPA was alerted to Aleena’s underage pregnancy in September 2025, a forensic interview was conducted at Blossom Inc., during which she made various statements. Following this, she received medical care at the regional hospital, and a referral was made to Blossom Inc. for victim support, court preparation, and trauma-focused counseling.
Aleena had previously been the subject of intervention by the CPA in 2024 due to allegations of physical, verbal, and sexual abuse by her father. She was removed from her parents’ home in Region 2 and temporarily placed in her elder sister’s care in Region 3. This matter was reported to the Guyana Police Force, leading to charges against her father. On November 11, 2024, the case was heard at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court, resulting in the father being remanded to prison.
On December 6, 2024, following an application by Aleena’s mother, the Essequibo High Court granted bail to the father in the amount of $350,000. The court order stipulated that he, along with anyone representing him, must not contact Aleena or approach within 100 feet of her. It was also ordered that Aleena remain under the care of her older sister or another assigned caregiver from the CPA. This matter remains pending.
Blossom Inc. reported to the CPA that on December 11, 2024, they had contacted Aleena and her sister, who indicated they were well-adjusted and declined further counseling.
The Ministry continues to work actively with the Childcare and Protection Agency to enhance operations and increase staffing levels, especially in regions with high case loads. Recruiting qualified staff in certain areas remains a challenge, but training efforts are ongoing. Plans are in place to strengthen coordination with key partners, including Blossom Inc. and ChildLink.
Additionally, amendments to the Sexual Offences Act have been drafted and will be tabled in the National Assembly shortly.
