Limpopo-based musician Lehlogonolo ‘Shebe Maburna’ Chauke remains in custody as the Polokwane High Court has reserved judgment on his latest bail appeal. Chauke, who has been detained since his arrest in November 2025, faces 21 criminal charges, including attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Legal Strategy And Medical Claims
Chauke’s defence team, led by Advocate Laurence Hodes, requested bail based on what they described as new facts regarding the accused’s health and personal circumstances. During the proceedings, the defence argued that the applicant’s medical condition, arising from a prior car accident, has not been adequately addressed while in detention.
The failure to provide medical attention is an absolutely new fact.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has consistently opposed the release of the musician, arguing that the applicant has not proven the existence of exceptional circumstances required for bail in such serious matters. State prosecutors maintain that the accused poses a potential risk to society and could commit further offences if released.
Case Progress And Judicial Timeline
The legal trajectory of this matter has seen multiple delays since the initial denial of bail by the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on 17 December 2025. By May 2026, the case was transferred to the Polokwane Regional Court, and although a charge of illegal possession of a firearm was withdrawn in July 2026, the remaining 21 counts proceed towards trial.
Pre-trial proceedings are currently scheduled to resume on 10 September 2026. The court is expected to deliver its ruling on the bail appeal in the coming weeks.