Elisha Molefe and Esme Jood

Elisha Molefe and Esme Jood

Mmabatho police are investigating the death of a 38-year-old man found hanging from a tree.

Buti Tshikang's body was found by a passer-by in Lokaleng village, near Mafikeng.

The deceased's brother, Ranko Tshikang, said Buti had earlier assaulted his sister Julia after accusing her of spending the night at a tavern.

Julia fled to their elder sister's home, where she drank paraffin. She was taken to Mafikeng Provincial Hospital.

Ranko said he and Buti visited Julia in hospital and nurses told them that if their sister laid a charge, Buti would be arrested.

"I did not see Buti for two days after that. On the third day he was found dead,'' said Ranko.

Julia denied spending the night at the tavern.

"I slept at my aunt's place. My brother beat me with a sjambok," she said.

She admitted drinking paraffin.

"I received counseling at the hospital," Julia said.

Mmabatho police spokesman, Boitumelo Mokubung, said an inquest had been registered and that investigations are under way.