Lekompo artist Lehlogonolo “Shebeshxt” Chauke appeared at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, for his third bail application since his arrest in late 2025, with his doctor taking the stand and his new legal team arguing fresh grounds for release on a nine-count charge sheet that includes three alleged counts of attempted murder.
Chauke, known professionally as Shebeshxt and popularly for the hit song Ambulance, has been held without bail since December 2025 following two failed applications at the magistrate’s court level and a dismissed urgent appeal at the Polokwane High Court in January 2026.
The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court is hearing his latest application, which his legal representatives say is grounded in new facts not previously placed before the court.
The charges against Shebeshxt
Chauke faces a total of nine charges, all of which stem primarily from a shooting incident that took place in Ladanna, Polokwane, in October 2025. The most serious are three counts of alleged attempted murder.
He additionally faces charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and the alleged negligent discharge of a firearm.
The state has consistently opposed bail, arguing that the charges fall under Schedule 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act, a classification that requires an accused person to demonstrate exceptional circumstances before bail can be granted.
At previous hearings, the prosecution successfully argued that Chauke had failed to meet that threshold and that his release would undermine the criminal justice system.
Advocate Isaac Mokgopo, acting on instructions from Ramusi Attorneys, represented Chauke at his most recent bail proceedings and applied for bail of R50 000.
His doctor’s testimony on Tuesday is understood to relate to Chauke’s health and the conditions of his detention.
Previous applications dismissed
Chauke’s first formal bail application was heard at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court in December 2025 and dismissed.
He spent the festive season in custody, prompting widespread social-media reaction from fans who had hoped for his release. His girlfriend called publicly for support, saying he deserved “one last chance.”
An urgent appeal to the Polokwane High Court in January 2026 was similarly dismissed. The case has since been transferred to the Regional Court, reflecting the seriousness of the charges.
Today’s application at the Magistrate’s Court represents a separate proceeding brought on the basis of new facts submitted by his legal team.
The state is expected to oppose the application again. The court had not delivered a ruling at the time of publication.
