After more than two years of legal proceedings, justice has finally been delivered in a gruesome murder case that shocked residents of Bong County.
A local court has sentenced Peter Kollie, commonly known as “Kantee,” to 30 years for carrying out a deadly acid attack that claimed the life of Rufus Collie.
Resident Circuit Judge Joe S. Barkon handed down the sentence on June 5, 2026, following Kollie’s guilty plea to the charge of murder.
The tragic incident occurred on December 24, 2023, in Garmue Town, Panta District, Electoral District #4. Investigators established that a dispute over an “unpaid debt” escalated into a violent confrontation between the two men.
During the altercation, Kollie attacked Rufus Collie, and poured sulfuric acid on him, inflicting severe life-threatening burns. The victim was immediately rushed to Phebe Hospital near Gbarnga, Bong County for emergency treatment before being transferred to Ganta Methodist Hospital in Nimba County due to the seriousness of his condition.
Despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life, Rufus Collie succumbed to his injuries on December 26, 2023.
The case attracted widespread public attention and prompted a thorough investigation by law enforcement authorities.
Prosecutors presented witness testimonies, medical reports, forensic findings, and Kollie’s own confession as evidence before the court.
A coroner jury later confirmed that the victim’s death resulted directly from the severe acid burns sustained during the attack.
The findings strengthened the prosecution’s case and paved the way for Kollie’s conviction.
In delivering the sentence, Judge Barkon ordered that Kollie serve his term at the Gbarnga Central Prison.
The court further directed that the convict undergoes counseling and rehabilitation during the final six months of his incarceration to assist with his eventual reintegration into society.
Residents have welcomed the ruling, which they described as a significant step toward justice and accountability.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and reinforces the commitment of justice system to ensure that those responsible for serious crimes are held accountable under the law.
