The bail application of popular Limpopo musician Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, widely known as *Shebeshxt*, took a dramatic turn on Monday, 8 December, when the court heard explosive allegations that he may have forged signatures in past criminal cases to have them withdrawn.
The claims were presented at the Polokwane Magistrates Court by Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola of the Limpopo Provincial Investigating Unit. Makola’s testimony detailed a troubling pattern in the artist’s legal history, with several cases dating back to 2015 reportedly withdrawn under suspicious circumstances. According to Makola, in at least one of those matters the complainant was shocked to learn that their case had been dropped, insisting they had never signed any withdrawal form.
Makola told the court that investigators had uncovered evidence suggesting a forged signature on that particular withdrawal statement. He emphasized that this was not an isolated incident, but part of a concerning trend in which cases involving the musician were “withdrawn in a manner that cannot be explained.”
These revelations came as Shebeshxt faces a new and extensive list of charges. The 30-year-old musician is currently charged with nine offences, including three counts of attempted murder, two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), the unlawful possession of a firearm, negligent discharge of a firearm, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The latest case stems from an incident on 19 October in Ladanna, Polokwane. According to court documents, two men approached the musician, allegedly to greet him. Moments later, shots were fired, leaving both men wounded. The state claims that the shooting was unprovoked, while the defence argues that key details remain unclear and disputed.
During the bail proceedings, state prosecutor Kgaogelo Lekoloane argued firmly against releasing the musician on bail, highlighting not only the severity of the current charges but also the troubling history surrounding past case withdrawals. Lekoloane said these earlier incidents raise red flags about potential interference with legal processes, suggesting that granting bail could pose a risk to the integrity of ongoing investigations.
However, the defence strongly disagreed. Shebeshxt’s legal representative, attorney Lot Ramusi, insisted that his client maintains his innocence on all charges. Ramusi argued that the allegations of forgery are unfounded and that the state is relying on speculation and incomplete information. He further stated that the musician’s high public profile has distorted public perception and may be unfairly influencing how the case is being handled.
Ramusi told the court that his client intends to plead not guilty and is prepared to cooperate fully with the criminal justice process. He argued that the musician has strong ties to the community and no history of absconding, making him a suitable candidate for bail.
The courtroom atmosphere remained tense as the allegations of signature forgery continued to dominate the discussion. The presiding magistrate eventually paused proceedings, with the matter scheduled to resume once both parties have completed further submissions.
As the case continues, widespread public attention remains fixed on the unfolding drama. For now, questions about past withdrawals, forged signatures, and the singer’s legal future hang heavily over the proceedings.
About the Author
