Niko Levula who escaped from the Suva Court House this morning has been sentenced in absentia by High Court Judge Justice Salesi Temo.
Justice Temo handed down a sentence of 20 years imprisonment for the 28‑year‑old man.
In his sentence, Justice Temo said Levula raped and robbed the 37‑year‑old woman and also stabbed her lip and chin.
Justice Temo said it was obvious that Levula had pre‑planned the act and had no regard for the woman's right for a happy and peaceful life.
The Judge said what Levula did was uncalled for as he was a fit person who chose to use his strength in a negative way.
A non parole period of 19 years has been set.
The sentence will take effect from the date Levula is arrested.
