Convicted rapist - Petero Bai is now on the run.

Fiji Prisons and Correctional Services Spokesperson, Josefa Matau confirms that Bai escaped around 11.30am today while working at the Nasinu cemetery with fellow inmates.

Bai was sentenced to fifteen years imprisonment for the rape of an eight year old girl in a school premises last year.

Matau confirmed that a major man hunt by police and prison officials is on and members of the public are being urged to report to their nearest police station if they know the whereabouts of Bai.

The public is also being reminded that harboring a prisoner is an offence.

Story by: Paradise Tudrau and Praneeta Deo