An investigation by the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), working with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, has found that 14-year-old Aleena Preetam—who died weeks after giving birth—had allegedly been physically, verbally and sexually abused by her father in 2024.
The ministry broke its silence on the matter Friday night following widespread public concern surrounding the teenager’s death, which occurred between February 22 and February 23. A post-mortem examination later determined that Preetam died from heart failure and anaemia.
Authorities also disclosed that the father of the baby girl she delivered may himself be under the age of 18. According to the ministry, DNA testing has been scheduled to determine paternity. The infant has since been placed in the foster care system while the CPA continues to work with the Guyana Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Guyana) to determine the next steps.
The ministry explained that the CPA first became aware of Preetam’s pregnancy in September 2025. A forensic interview was conducted at Blossom Inc, where the teenager made specific statements. She later received medical care at a regional hospital and was referred to Blossom Inc for victim support, court preparation and trauma-focused counselling.
According to officials, the matter followed earlier intervention by the CPA in 2024 after reports that the teenager had been physically, verbally and sexually abused by her father. She was removed from her parents’ home in Region Two and placed temporarily with her older sister in Region Three under a caregiver agreement.
The case was reported to the police and resulted in charges against the father. On November 11, 2024, the charge was read at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court, where he was remanded to prison. However, the High Court of Guyana granted him bail on December 6, 2024, in the sum of $350,000 following an application by his wife.
The court order prohibited the man, his wife, or anyone acting on their behalf from contacting Preetam or approaching within 100 feet of her. It also directed that she remain in the care of her sister in Region Three or another guardian approved by the CPA. The matter remains pending before the court.
The ministry said Blossom Inc later reported that on December 11, 2024, Preetam and her sister indicated they were adjusting well and declined counselling services.
Preetam had previously attended Abram Zuil Secondary School, but later transferred to another school before eventually dropping out of the education system.
Her death has reignited concern about the vulnerabilities facing children in Guyana. According to UNICEF and national child protection reports, the CPA responds to more than 4,000 cases of abuse, violence and exploitation involving children each year, while studies show sexual abuse remains a significant concern within the country.
Teenage pregnancy is another persistent issue. Regional research indicates that Guyana records approximately 68 to 82 births per 1,000 girls aged 15 to 19, among the higher adolescent birth rates in the Caribbean. Government reports to the United Nations have also indicated that about 3,000 girls leave school annually due to pregnancy, highlighting the deep connection between teenage pregnancy and school dropout.
Ann Greene, retired Chief Probation and Welfare Officer and former Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency, expressed “anguish” over how the case was handled, questioning whether proper procedures were followed when the teenager became pregnant and gave birth.
Preetam’s case has prompted difficult questions about whether the systems meant to protect children are functioning effectively enough. While authorities say efforts are underway to strengthen the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), expand staffing in high-caseload regions and amend the Sexual Offences Act, advocates say the tragedy underscores the urgent need for stronger prevention, monitoring and support mechanisms for vulnerable children.
The teen’s case is more than an isolated tragedy; it is a stark reminder of the complex social challenges confronting children and families, and of the responsibility of institutions to ensure that those most vulnerable do not fall through the cracks.
