The Polokwane magistrate’s court pushed Katlego “Shebeshxt” Chauke’s bail hearing from Monday to Wednesday, leaving the Lekombo star locked up over the festive season as he faces six serious charges, including attempted murder. Picture Credits: Daily Sun
By Duncan Mnisi
Polokwane – The bail hearing for Lekompo sensation Katlego “Shebeshxt” Chauke was postponed once again on Monday, 15 December. The magistrate set a new date for Wednesday, 17 December, meaning the 30-year-old rapper will remain behind bars on Boxing Day and is likely to spend Christmas in prison.
Shebeshxt, whose real name is Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, faces six charges linked to a violent altercation that allegedly occurred on 19 October in Ladanna, Polokwane. These include two counts of attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, malicious damage to property, defeating the ends of justice, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The case has been classified as a Schedule 6 offence, the most serious category under South African law, placing a heavy burden on the accused to prove exceptional circumstances for release on bail. Police have also highlighted Chauke’s alleged criminal history, citing involvement in violent incidents dating back to 2015, including two earlier attempted-murder cases.
“The firearm used in this matter has not yet been recovered, but we have obtained the bullet or projectile, which has been sent for ballistic analysis,” said Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola, the investigating officer, during Monday’s proceedings.
Defence advocate Lot Ramusi argued for his client’s immediate release, stressing Chauke’s personal responsibilities. He told the court that the rapper supports a heavily pregnant partner, a young child living in Krugersdorp, and provides ongoing financial assistance to his parents and in-laws.
“He has significant personal and financial obligations that justify bail,” Ramusi argued.
The latest postponement follows a series of delays. Earlier this month, the hearing was moved from 27 November to allow the defence time to study six additional charges introduced by the state. These new allegations have increased the total number of charges against Shebeshxt to nine, further complicating the bail application.
Chauke’s continued detention has already had financial consequences. Seven scheduled performances have been cancelled, with up to 42 more festive-season bookings now at risk. Promoters estimate potential losses and refunds of approximately R2 million should the cancellations continue.
The magistrate is expected to reconvene on Wednesday to rule on the bail application. Until then, Shebeshxt will remain in custody as the legal process continues, spending the festive season behind bars.
