POLOKWANE – The Limpopo High Court on Thursday granted bail to local aesthetics doctor and professional bodybuilder Dr Ahmed Khan, overturning an earlier ruling by the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court.

The 43-year-old faces a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm following an incident at his home in March.

Read more: Doctor and bodybuilder denied bail in Polokwane court

State opposed bail

The state strongly opposed his release, arguing that the alleged offence occurred while Khan was serving an 18-month correctional supervision sentence for a previous common assault conviction.

The high court found that the interests of justice permitted Khan’s release and ordered that he be freed under strict bail conditions.

Medical concerns played a role

Khan had remained under police guard at a private hospital since shortly after his arrest. His legal team successfully argued that standard detention cells posed a serious risk to his health.

Court documents revealed that Khan survived a 2022 shooting incident in Durban. Medical records submitted to the court indicated that he still requires specialised ongoing supervision for related health complications.

Released shortly after ruling

Sources close to Khan confirmed to Polokwane Observer that he was released shortly after bail was granted.

Khan pleaded not guilty to the assault charge and denied the allegations in court papers.

In his affidavit, Khan stated that his continued detention negatively affected his medical practice and patients, all of whom require essential treatment within a strict eight-week cycle.

Next court appearance

His next appearance in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court is scheduled for Monday.