Lekompo musician Lehlohonolo Chauke (31), popularly known as “Shebeshxt”, will remain behind bars after the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court dismissed a bail application based on alleged new facts.
This is the controversial public figure’s third attempt at obtaining bail. He has been behind bars for several months since his arrest in November 2025
This application follows Chauke’s unsuccessful bail appeal on January 9, 2026, which was dismissed by the Polokwane High Court.
He faces nine charges, including assault, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, malicious property damage, and attempted murder.
During the bail proceedings, the State, represented by Senior Public Prosecutor, Advocate Kgaogelo Lekoloane, submitted that the accused allegedly committed additional offences while out on bail in other matters before the Mankweng, Seshego, and Lebowakgomo Magistrates’ Courts.
The State further argued that the offence falls under the schedule; therefore, he should prove exceptional circumstances, whether it is in the interests of justice to admit the applicant on bail.
Advocate further submitted that all the facts were canvassed during the initial bail hearing.
The court agreed with the state that no new facts had been presented, finding that all relevant information had already been presented to the court during the initial bail proceedings.
The court further held that the accused failed to satisfy it that his release on bail would be in the interests of justice. Accordingly, the bail application based on new facts was dismissed.
The matter has been postponed to May 15, 2026, for trial in the Polokwane Regional Court.
Earlier this April, Shebeshxt’s girlfriend, Kholofelo Chuene, took to social media to plead for his release. Chuene posted a video on TikTok where she shared a statement calling on supporters to stand behind the Lekompo artist.
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