Controversial Limpopo musician Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, popularly known as Shebeshxt (or Shebe Maburna), has once again been denied bail — marking the third time the courts have refused to release him pending trial.
The ruling was handed down this morning by Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court, where heavy police presence and a crowd of supporters gathered outside as the highly anticipated judgment was delivered at 10:00.
The Charges & Timeline Of Events
Shebeshxt was arrested on 12 November 2025 following an alleged road-rage shooting incident in Ladanna, Polokwane.
He faces multiple serious charges, including three counts of attempted murder, assault, and negligent discharge of a firearm.
The case has been classified as a Schedule 6 offence, which places a high burden on the accused to prove exceptional circumstances for bail.
December 2025: First bail application denied at the same court. The magistrate cited Shebeshxt’s “serious disregard for the law,” previous run-ins with the justice system, and the fact that the victim spent four days in a coma. He was remanded until February 2026.
January 2026: An urgent High Court appeal was dismissed on 9 January, keeping him in custody.
April 2026: A fresh bail application was heard over several days. The defence presented arguments around health concerns and family responsibilities, but the state opposed bail strongly, calling new witnesses and contradicting claims of inadequate medical care in prison. The matter was postponed multiple times (23 April, 28 April) before today’s final ruling.
This morning’s decision confirms the court once more found no exceptional circumstances to justify his release. Shebeshxt will remain in custody until his next court appearance on 15 May 2026.
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Courtroom Drama & Public Reaction
The latest bail hearing was marked by tense exchanges. Defence lawyers argued that continued detention was affecting the artist’s health and career, while the state maintained that Shebeshxt poses a flight risk and has a pattern of alleged offences committed while previously out on bail.
Social media erupted immediately after the ruling. While some fans expressed disappointment and called for his release, others welcomed the decision, arguing that high-profile artists should not receive special treatment.
Posts referencing alleged “Limpopo bias” in comparison to other recent bail grants circulated widely, though the court’s reasoning focused strictly on the merits of the application.
Who Is Shebeshxt?
Born in Lebowakgomo, Limpopo, the 30-year-old rose to national fame through viral TikTok hits such as “Ke Di Shxt Malume” and the chart-topping “Rato Laka” featuring Naqua SA and Zee Nxumalo.
Independent and unapologetically street, Shebeshxt built a massive following without major label backing, becoming one of South Africa’s most-streamed lekompo artists. His legal troubles, however, have overshadowed his musical success in recent months.
As the case heads toward trial, the music industry and fans continue to watch closely. Shebeshxt’s legal team has not yet indicated whether they will pursue another appeal.
9ice Entertainment will provide live updates as developments unfold. The accused remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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