‘Monstrous act’ – Human Services Minister condemns gruesome Zeelugt attack, pledges unconditional support

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, has pledged unconditional support to the family of seven-year-old Adriel Aftab Mohamed, who was brutally killed during an attack at his Zeelugt New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo home on Friday morning.

Dr Persaud visited the scene of the tragedy and met with relatives and residents as the community continued to grapple with the shocking incident.

“This is devastating …it’s a gruesome tragedy in our country,” Dr Persaud told the News Room.

She said the circumstances surrounding the child’s death have left many shaken and raised serious concerns among residents.

“What is of concern is that this happened and it shouldn’t have happened …It shouldn’t happen. Whoever did this is monstrous,” Dr Persaud said.

According to reports, a lone perpetrator entered the home occupied by Adriel and his 72-year-old great-grandmother.

The suspect allegedly demanded money from the pensioner. During the ordeal, the child woke up and screamed after noticing the intruder. He was subsequently attacked and killed, while his great-grandmother sustained injuries. Police are actively pursuing the suspect.

Dr Persaud said the Child Care and Protection Agency has already begun providing support to the grieving family, including Adriel’s sibling and other children affected by the tragedy.

“There is lost, there is grieve, there is pain…for me no child should lose their life, no time and when it happen shock ripples through our country,” she said.

She noted that immediate steps are being taken to address concerns raised by residents during her visit.

“We have made some decisions on the ground. I met with the residents, they raised some concerns, I dealt with them already and things will start happening from first thing in the morning,” Dr. Persaud explained.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the family, Dr Persaud said authorities will remain closely involved as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy.

“Our support is unconditional for this family and we will not in any way be separate from this incident because we care and what has happened here demands our unconditional support,” she stated.