‘Shebeshxt’: Bail denied after court hearing

POLOKWANE – The defence counsel for musician Lehlogonolo ‘Shebeshxt’ Chauke has questioned the credibility of the investigating officer during closing arguments in the bail hearing, accusing the state of relying on unreliable and improperly sourced information to strengthen its case.

Allegations of “backdoor” information

Adv Isaac Mokgopo told the court that investigating officer WO Phaladi Makola used “backdoor information” to tighten charges against Chauke, arguing that the evidence presented was unreliable and should not be relied upon by the court.

“The state witness was not credible, and his evidence should be frowned upon. The state used information from the back door to paint the bail applicant as a lawbreaker who is always in and out of court,” Mokgopo said.

Mokgopo further submitted that the state relied on public pressure to add charges without verifying the status of Chauke’s previous cases and without conducting thorough investigations.

This followed Makola’s testimony that he could not confirm whether Chauke financially maintains a child in Krugersdorp, citing the absence of the child’s mother’s contact details, address or bank statements from the accused or his legal representatives.

The defence also argued that Chauke’s release on bail would not pose a threat, stating that his popularity and busy performance schedule, supported by a gig guide submitted to court, would instead result in public celebration rather than unrest.

Also read: State’s closing argument against bail for Shebeshxt

Meanwhile, state counsel Adv Kgaogelo Lekoloane opposed the bail application, maintaining that Chauke should not be released. Lekoloane told the court that although Chauke is not currently on parole, he has previously committed schedule one offences while out on bail.

“We submit that there is a likelihood that the applicant will indeed commit a schedule one offence and endanger the public, as he has done before. We have this on CCTV footage and videos circulating on social media,” Lekoloane said.

He also raised concerns about the likelihood of Chauke evading trial, noting that the accused faces serious violent charges that fall under minimum sentence legislation, which could result in lengthy prison terms.

Bail denied, musician to remain in custody

At the time of closing arguments, Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi reserved judgment and delivered his ruling on Wednesday (December 17).

Chauke’s bail has been denied, which will see the musician remain in custody until his next court appearance in February, 2026.