Probe into Aleena Preetam’s death: Human Services Ministry says baby in foster care; girl was abused by father

See below the full release from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security: 

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through its Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), has conducted in depth investigations following the sad demise of 14-year old Aleena Preetam who died between February 22 to February 23, 2026, weeks after giving birth to a baby girl.

Investigations suggest the possibility that the father of the baby might be a teenaged boy under 18 years old. DNA tests have been scheduled to assist with the determination of paternity. The baby has been placed into the foster care system. CPA is following up with the Guyana Police Force and Office of Director of Public Prosecution on next steps.

When the CPA was made aware of the under-age pregnancy in September 2025, a Forensic Interview was conducted with Aleena at Blossom Inc. during which she made certain statements. She received medical care at the regional hospital. A referral was submitted to Blossom Inc. requesting victim support, court preparation support, and trauma focused counseling.

Aleena was the subject of a previous intervention by the Childcare and Protection Agency in 2024 following reports that she was allegedly being physically, verbally, and sexually abused by her father. She was removed from her parents’ home in Region 2 and placed in the temporary care of her older sister in Region 3 and caregiver agreement was concluded. The matter was reported to the Guyana Police Force and following investigations, the father was charged. On 11th November, 2024, the matter was heard at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court and the father was remanded to prison.

On 6th December 2024, upon the application of Aleena’s mother, the Essequibo High Court granted bail to the father in the sum of $350,000. The High Court Order stipulated that the accused and anyone on his behalf, including the applicant mother, should not make any contact whatsoever with Aleena or go within 100 feet of her. It was further ordered that Aleena should remain in the care and control of her elder sister in Region 3 or with any other person that the Childcare and Protection Agency so directs. The matter is still pending.

Blossom Inc. reported to CPA that on the 11 December 2024, they contacted Aleena and her sister who indicated that they were well adjusted and did not wish to receive any counseling.

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security continues to work with the Childcare and Protection Agency to bolster operations and increase its staff complement particularly in the regions where case load is high. Recruiting staff in some regions is often challenging. Training is ongoing. There are plans to strengthen coordination on the operational support provided by key partners, including Blossom Inc and ChildLink.

The statutory framework is being enhanced with amendments already drafted to the Sexual Offences Act. These amendments will be tabled shortly in the National Assembly.