National Security Minister Stuart Young has confirmed that a privately contracted security guard who was accused of raping a child at a State operated safe house, has been removed from duty pending the outcome of an investigation. 

Addressing the Senate on Tuesday, Young described the case as “tragic, disturbing and upsetting” and confirmed that Child Protection Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and all other necessary bodies were investigating the matter.

“This is something that is receiving the government’s full attention, both through the Office of the Prime Minister and the section on Gender & Child Affairs under Minister Ayanna Webster-Roy and the Children’s Authority,” Young said. 

“Please be assured Madame President that the (Children’s) Authority continues to seek the best interest of children who are placed in its care. And I hope that the necessary criminal charges will be brought against the security officer,” he added.