Lekompo star Lehlogonolo “Shebeshxt” Chauke was denied bail and will remain behind bars as he faces multiple serious charges. Picture Credits: Bushbuckridge TV
By Duncan Mnisi
Polokwane – Lekompo artist Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, popularly known as Shebeshxt, has been denied bail by the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court and will remain in custody over the Christmas period. The matter has been postponed to 18 February 2026 for further proceedings.
Chauke was arrested in November following a shooting and several other incidents that police allege occurred in and around Polokwane. The state has laid multiple charges against him, including attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, and possession of an unlicensed firearm. Several media reports indicate that the charge sheet was later expanded to include additional counts.
During the bail hearing, the state argued that Chauke posed a danger to the public, citing his alleged involvement in previous violent incidents. The investigating officer opposed bail, highlighting multiple pending cases and past convictions.
Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola, the investigating officer, told the court that Chauke is facing several serious and interconnected matters, some of which are already scheduled for trial in February 2026. Makola also testified that Chauke is not a licensed firearm owner and raised concerns about public safety and the potential risk to witnesses.
The defence applied for Chauke’s release on bail, arguing that he has strong community ties and significant family responsibilities. Defence counsel challenged aspects of the state’s case and complained that additional charges had been introduced at short notice, making adequate preparation difficult. “You have to prepare… There are six counts that I’m not aware of. We were ambushed,” the defence told the court.
Reporting on the case has been inconsistent. Earlier coverage in November indicated that Chauke had been granted bail in a separate Lebowakgomo matter, with some trial dates set for February 2026. However, more recent proceedings in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court resulted in bail being refused, with Chauke remanded in custody.
As a result, Chauke will spend the festive season behind bars, miss scheduled performances, and focus on preparing his legal defence ahead of the February court date and any related trials. The case has drawn widespread attention on social media, with reactions ranging from messages of support to serious concern over the gravity of the allegations.
The matter is set to return to court on 18 February 2026, when issues relating to remand, scheduling, or further proceedings are expected to be addressed.
