Police have arrested and charged a 22 year old farmer of Tovata, Labasa for allegedly raping a 68 year old woman on Wednesday morning.

Assistant Spokesperson, Corporal Josaia Weicavu has confirmed that the man was arrested yesterday afternoon with one count of rape and will appear in the Labasa Magistrates court this afternoon.

The alleged incident took place when the elderly woman was asleep inside her home.

He fled the scene when the woman raised alarm and neighbors came to her rescue. The victim is still admitted in the Labasa Hospital.