POLOKWANE – Lekompo artist Lehlogonolo Chauke, widely known as Shebe Maburna, will spend at least another month in custody after his case was postponed to 27 March 2026.
The 30-year-old musician made a brief appearance at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday morning, where proceedings were delayed to allow for the arrangement of a regional court date. On the next court appearance, the court is expected to confirm the official trial date and outline the way forward in what has become a high-profile case.
Chauke was arrested in November 2025 following an incident that allegedly took place on 19 October in Ladanna, a suburb of Polokwane. According to earlier reports, the musician is accused of shooting a motorist during an altercation. The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain central to the State’s case as investigations continue.
The popular performer is currently facing nine charges. These include attempted murder, malicious damage to property, and unlawful possession of a firearm. The seriousness of the charges means that the matter will be transferred to a regional court, which has jurisdiction to handle more severe criminal offences and impose heavier sentences if a conviction is secured.
The court appearance on Wednesday was brief, with no new evidence presented publicly. Supporters and members of the public gathered outside court, as interest in the case remains high. Chauke, who has built a strong following within the Lekompo music scene, has been a prominent figure in Limpopo’s entertainment industry over the past few years.
Known for his energetic performances and distinctive style, the artist rose to fame with several hits, including Rato Laka, which helped cement his place in the local music landscape. His legal troubles have, however, cast a shadow over his career and left fans divided as the case unfolds.
Legal experts indicate that the postponement is a procedural step aimed at ensuring that all administrative arrangements are properly handled before trial proceedings begin. The regional court date will clarify timelines and determine how the case will proceed, including the scheduling of witness testimonies and the presentation of evidence.
For now, Chauke remains in custody as he awaits his next court appearance. The outcome of the March hearing will be critical in setting the pace for the trial and determining when substantive arguments will begin.
As the matter moves closer to trial, the focus will shift to the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defence. Until then, the case remains under judicial consideration, with the accused maintaining his right to a fair trial under South African law.
The next appearance on 27 March 2026 is expected to provide greater clarity on the timeline of proceedings in a case that continues to draw widespread public attention.
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