The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court is expected to deliver its decision today on the bail application of popular Lekompo musician Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, widely known as Shebeshxt or Shebe Maburna, in a case that has captured public attention across Limpopo and beyond.
Chauke has been behind bars since his arrest in November and faces nine serious criminal charges, including multiple counts of attempted murder, assault, and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The offences fall under Schedule 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act, a category reserved for the most serious crimes and one that places a heavy burden on an accused to justify release on bail.
The State has strongly opposed Chauke’s application, arguing that he poses a danger to the community. Prosecutors told the court that Chauke allegedly has a history of violent conduct, committed previous offences while out on bail, and attempted to interfere with witnesses through associates. The State also raised concerns about alleged substance abuse and questioned the credibility of claims regarding his personal circumstances.
In response, Chauke’s legal team rejected the State’s assertions, describing them as exaggerated and unsubstantiated. They applied for bail set at R50,000, arguing that Chauke has deep roots in the community, is a well-known public figure, and has no intention of evading trial. His lawyers further maintained that some of the cases relied upon by the prosecution were previously withdrawn and should not be used to prejudice the court’s decision.
The case has drawn heightened public interest due to Chauke’s rapid rise within Limpopo’s Lekompo music scene and his personal hardships, including the tragic death of his young daughter in a car accident earlier this year. A refusal of bail could also jeopardise his ability to honour lucrative December performance bookings.
Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi is expected to hand down the bail ruling at 11h30 today, a decision that will test the balance between the rights of an accused person and the interests of justice in a high-profile Schedule 6 case.
