By: Morlu F. Freeman Sr., Lofa County Correspondent
On October 6, 2025, a tragic incident occurred involving 17-year-old Tarnue Kollie, a resident of the Market Ground community and student at Multilateral High School in Voinjama City, Lofa County. Mr. Kollie was arrested for the theft of four ducks belonging to a local resident, Hannah F. Mattely. The incident took place around 11:00 PM when he was apprehended by citizens of Selega community yesterday and taken to the local police station.
While being held for his alleged crime and awaiting trial, Mr. Kollie made a desperate attempt to take his own life in the police cell yesterday. A female passerby, who had initially gone to the Women and Children’s Office, noticed Mr. Kollie hanging and quickly alerted the authorities. Police officers hurriedly intervened, removing him from the noose and reviving him with water before transporting him to Tellewoyan Memorial Hospital for medical treatment.
In interviews following the incident, Mr. Kollie explained that his actions were driven by overwhelming frustration and despair. He revealed that both of his parents are in Guinea, leaving him to navigate life alone in Liberia. Fearing a life sentence for his theft, he saw no other way out and felt compelled to end his suffering.
Mr. Kollie’s case has since been brought before the court, where he will face charges related to the theft. The community is rallying to provide support for him during this challenging time, highlighting the need for social services aimed at helping troubled youths.
