Christmas Behind Bars: Court Denies Bail to Lekompo Star Shebeshxt

A festive season comes to a sudden halt

For many musicians, December is about packed shows, road trips, and cashing in on a year of hard work. For rising Lekompo star Shebeshxt, this festive season will instead be spent behind bars.

The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court has denied bail to the artist, real name Lehlogonolo Chauke, meaning all his December and New Year bookings are officially off the table. The ruling, delivered on Wednesday morning, ensures the popular Limpopo musician will remain in custody well into the new year.

Court says bail conditions were not met

Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi handed down the decision after weeks of arguments between the state and the defence. At the heart of the ruling was one key issue: the court found that Chauke failed to show exceptional circumstances that would justify his release on bail.

In cases involving serious allegations, the law sets a high bar. According to the court, that bar was not met.

The matter has now been postponed to 18 February 2026, meaning Chauke will remain in custody throughout the festive season and beyond.

What the case is about

The charges stem from an incident that allegedly took place in Ladanna on October 19. The state claims the musician was involved in a violent confrontation during which a motorist was shot and wounded.

While the defence argued that Chauke was not a flight risk and should be allowed to await trial outside prison, prosecutors strongly opposed the bail application, citing the seriousness of the allegations.

In his judgment, Magistrate Netshiozwi sided with the state, concluding that there was not enough evidence presented to justify releasing the accused.

From charting tracks to court corridors

Shebeshxt, also known to fans as Shebe Maburna, has been one of the fastest-rising names in the Lekompo scene a genre deeply rooted in Limpopo’s township culture and youth identity.

Known for raw street anthems and high-energy performances, he built a loyal following across Limpopo and neighbouring provinces. December, traditionally the biggest earning period for artists, was expected to be a major milestone in his career.

Instead, the court ruling has pressed pause on his momentum, turning what should have been a celebratory season into a defining personal and professional crisis.

Public reaction: divided but loud

The news has sparked intense debate online. Social media timelines have been flooded with reactions from fans expressing heartbreak and disbelief, to others urging the public not to lose sight of the seriousness of the charges.

Some supporters argue the artist deserves a chance to fight his case outside prison. Others say the court made the right call and that fame should not influence the justice system.

What’s clear is that the case has struck a nerve, especially in Limpopo, where Shebeshxt’s music has become part of everyday life for many young listeners.

For now, Chauke remains in custody as he awaits his next court appearance in February 2026. His legal battle now overshadows his musical rise, leaving fans, promoters and the broader Lekompo community watching closely.

As the festive lights come on across the country, Shebeshxt’s December will look very different, a stark reminder of how quickly life can change when the music stops and the law takes centre stage.

{Source: The Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com