Teen mother’s death: Baby now in foster care; DNA test ordered to establish paternity

The newborn daughter of 14-year-old Aleena Preetam, who died in February only weeks after giving birth, has been placed in the foster care system, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry revealed on Thursday.
The Ministry, through its Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), said DNA tests are scheduled to determine the paternity of the baby, as investigations suggest the father may be a teenage boy under 18 years old. The CPA is coordinating with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding next steps.
Guyana Times had previously reported that Aleena Preetam, of Good Hope, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon–Supenaam), died of heart failure and anaemia. She was found dead in her bedroom about a month after delivering her baby. Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony earlier this month had also outlined the standard procedures for the care of pregnant patients at public health facilities, including assessments at accident and emergency departments and follow-up clinic appointments after discharge.
Preetam, a former student of Abram Zuil Secondary School, had transferred to another school but eventually left school before becoming pregnant. Her delivery was considered safe, and she returned home with her baby prior to her death.
The Human Services Ministry said Aleena had previously been under CPA supervision following reports of physical, verbal, and sexual abuse by her father in 2024.
She was removed from her parents’ home in Region Two and placed in the care of her older sister in Region Three. The father was charged, remanded, and later granted bail in December 2024 under conditions prohibiting any contact with Aleena. The case remains pending.
When Aleena’s underage pregnancy was first reported in September 2025, a forensic interview was conducted, and she received medical care at the regional hospital. She was also referred to an NGO for victim support, court preparation assistance, and trauma-focused counselling. Reports indicated that Aleena and her sister opted not to pursue counselling at that time.
The Ministry said it continues to strengthen CPA operations and staff recruitment, particularly in regions with high caseloads. Ongoing training is being provided, and amendments to the Sexual Offences Act have been drafted and are expected to be tabled in the National Assembly shortly to enhance the statutory framework.