A shocking courtroom twist sees the “King of the North” denied freedom after prosecutors allege he forged a victim’s statement and piled on nine serious charges, leaving fans reeling and his festive‑season bookings in limbo. Picture Credits: Tzaneen Voice
By Duncan Mnisi
Polokwane – Limpopo rapper Lehlogonolo “Shebeshxt” Chauke walked into the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday expecting a routine appearance and a swift release. Instead, he walked out with a far heavier outcome: Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi denied his bail application and ordered him to remain behind bars until 19 January 2026.
The decision followed a dramatic hearing in which the state introduced new and serious evidence.
Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola from the Limpopo Provincial Investigating Unit testified that Shebeshxt allegedly forged documents linked to the withdrawal of a previous case.
“The court has confirmed that the documents were falsified,” Makola said, adding that investigators are now scrutinising several older matters that were mysteriously withdrawn, as they too may contain forged signatures.
Shebeshxt now faces nine charges — including three counts of attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, negligent discharge of a firearm, and other violent-conduct offences.
These additions stem from an October 2025 incident in Ladanna, where the rapper allegedly opened fire on two men who approached him to greet him, injuring both.
Outside the courthouse, dozens of “Shebe Nation” supporters gathered, chanting for his freedom while police maintained tight control. Inside, his lawyer Lot Ramusi accused the state of blindsiding the defence by adding six new charges at the last minute — robbery with aggravating circumstances, two more assault charges, and firearm-related offences.
Ramusi argued that the sudden expansion of the docket “puts our client at a clear disadvantage,” and may force the defence to request more preparation time.
Makola also reminded the court of Chauke’s previous legal issues — including a 2018 theft conviction he settled with a R300 fine, and two attempted-murder cases that remain pending.
“His bail conditions were not to commit any Schedule 1 offences,” Makola noted.
The consequences of the postponement have already hit the artist’s career. His management confirmed that several festive-season bookings have been cancelled, with deposits being refunded.
“He has a lot to lose… we were prepared to deal with three counts, but now there are more,” Ramusi said.
The case will now be centralised so that all nine charges can be heard together. The next bail hearing is set for 19 January 2026, but with the matter now falling under Schedule 6, the defence will have to prove exceptional circumstances to secure his release.
The court took a wise decision and the boy is a danger to the communities and to himself also..
He must be jailed for atleast not less than 10 years with no parola.
It will be unjustice if the court withdraw those serious cases,