‘Protected, not exposed’ – Ministry outraged by online sharing of five-year-old’s assault case

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has condemned the circulation of sensitive information on social media regarding a five-year-old child who was reportedly sexually assaulted in Region Nine.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry described the sharing of such details as “irresponsible, unethical, and harmful,” warning that it further traumatises the victim and violates the child’s right to privacy and protection.

“Children who are victims of abuse must be protected, not exposed,” the Ministry stressed.

According to the Ministry, it was officially notified of the incident by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on October 9, 2025, following which the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) immediately intervened. The CPA has since been providing continuous psychosocial support and trauma-focused counselling to the child and family.

Officials have also maintained ongoing contact and monitoring to ensure the child’s safety and overall well-being.

After the child was medically cleared to speak, a forensic interview was conducted at the Child Advocacy Centre on October 13, 2025, in full compliance with established child protection protocols. The case remains under active police investigation.

The Ministry reiterated its appeal to the public to refrain from sharing or reposting any information relating to children involved in abuse cases, particularly those involving sexual assault.

It reminded that Section 10(2) of the Childcare and Protection Agency Act (Cap. 46:07) expressly prohibits the publication of any information that could lead to the identification of a child involved in legal proceedings. This includes the child’s name, age, address, school, or any other identifying particulars.

“This provision safeguards the privacy, dignity, and well-being of the child by preventing exposure that could cause harm, distress, or stigmatisation,” the Ministry noted.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting every child in Guyana and said it will continue to act swiftly in all cases of child abuse and exploitation.

“The safety, dignity, and recovery of every child remain our foremost priority,” the statement added.