Limpopo musician Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, popularly known as Shebe Maburna, is back in court as his ongoing legal troubles take a serious turn due to urgent health concerns.
The 31-year-old artist appeared before the Polokwane Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, where his legal team introduced new medical evidence in support of his latest bail application. According to his defence, Maburna’s deteriorating condition now requires immediate medical intervention, making his release more pressing than ever.
Medical Testimony Reveals Ongoing Struggles
During the hearing, Maburna’s lawyer, Michael Khumalo, called medical doctor Malose Phillip Chaba to testify about the artist’s condition. The doctor told the court that he had been treating Maburna both before and after a car accident that occurred in June 2024.
Dr Chaba explained that the musician initially sought medical help earlier in 2024 for abdominal issues. However, his condition worsened significantly following the accident, leading to more complex health complications. He further revealed that Maburna has been experiencing both physical pain and emotional distress since undergoing surgery.
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The court heard that the musician has struggled with severe discomfort and ongoing sleep disturbances, which required the use of strong medication, including sleeping tablets.
Urgent Surgery Now Required
A major concern raised in court is the need for urgent orthopaedic surgery. According to Dr Chaba, Maburna requires a procedure known as Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) to correct a loose screw in his right leg.
The doctor warned that failure to undergo the operation promptly could result in worsening pain, delayed healing, and even permanent deformity. He noted that the issue had already been identified between September and November 2025, and plans were in place to refer Maburna to a specialist before his arrest interrupted the process.
Third Bid for Bail
This latest hearing marks Maburna’s third attempt to secure bail. His initial application was denied, and a subsequent appeal to the High Court was unsuccessful. Despite the new medical evidence, the State continues to oppose his release, citing the seriousness of the charges against him.
The musician is currently facing nine charges, including three counts of attempted murder. These allegations are linked to incidents that reportedly took place in Limpopo, which ultimately led to his arrest in November 2025.
Court Decision Still Pending
The case is being overseen by senior Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi, who is expected to consider both the legal arguments and the medical urgency presented by the defence.
While Maburna’s health condition adds a new layer of complexity to the proceedings, it remains uncertain whether it will influence the court’s final decision.
For now, the musician remains in custody, with his fate hanging in the balance as the court weighs his urgent need for medical care against the gravity of the charges he faces.
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