Investigations Launched into Police Interference in Cases Involving Musician Shebeshxt
The Limpopo police have opened an investigation into allegations that some officers interfered in cases involving local musician Shebeshxt, hindering justice and potentially enabling his continued acts of violence. This announcement follows troubling disclosures made by the investigating officer, W/O Phaladi Makola, during a court appearance in the Polokwane magistrate’s court.
Makola revealed that several of Shebeshxt’s cases have been mysteriously withdrawn, leading to complaints from victims who feel their cases were mishandled. “We are in this dilemma because some government officials and police officers interfered in his cases,” Makola stated. “He knows that he will commit a crime and get protection. These people play a huge role in his violent behaviour.”
Shebeshxt, whose real name is Lehlohonolo Chauke, was arrested last month following an attempted murder incident on October 19. Reports suggest that while driving through Polokwane, he fired at a group of fans, injuring one who has been hospitalised since the shooting.
In his testimony, Makola recounted a particularly alarming case involving an assault at a local pub in Mankweng. “The victim was beaten with fists by the accused,” he explained. “The victim opened a case with the Mankweng police, but the matter was withdrawn. The court was told that the complainant didn’t get justice as the police officers frustrated him.” He added that the victim was not provided with a J8 form to assess his injuries at the hospital, leading to further frustration and a lack of justice.
Another incident mentioned by Makola involved a negligent discharge of a firearm at the Lebowakgomo police station. According to reports, Shebeshxt and another man entered a woman's home in search of her son, accusing him of stealing their song beats. “It is alleged that Shebe entered the yard and intimidated the woman after she told them the person they were looking for was not around,” Makola noted. “The accused proceeded to fire shots and then left the home of the woman. The firearm was never recovered, but cartridges were collected on the scene.”
Makola revealed he recently met with the woman involved in this case and expressed her dissatisfaction with how the police handled the situation. He stated, “We have launched an investigation into people who assisted him [Shebeshxt] with evading justice.”
Shebeshxt’s suitability for bail has been a significant point of contention. Makola argued against his release, stating, “If released on bail, he will continue committing other criminal offences. If you go to the internet, you will see that the applicant always posts that he wants to commit a first-degree offence because he does not have a degree.” He further warned that letting Shebeshxt out on bail would send a harmful message to society, particularly to his young fanbase.
Prosecutor Kgaogelo Lekoloane also highlighted Shebeshxt’s previous bail status, noting he had been out on bail before his current attempted murder charge. In response, Shebeshxt's lawyer, Lot Ramusi, submitted an affidavit claiming that several cases against his client had been withdrawn by the complainants.
Makola expressed surprise at this revelation and elaborated on one specific assault case, indicating that it was withdrawn due to the victim's fear for his life. “He [the accused] went to the complainant with a bunch of his friends to tell him to withdraw the case [or] otherwise his life would be made difficult. They then called the investigating officer and said he wants to withdraw,” said Makola.
However, the case has now been reinstated, reflecting ongoing concerns about accountability and the justice process for victims of violence in the region.
Shebeshxt is scheduled to return to court on Wednesday for the continuation of his bail application. The outcome of this hearing may have significant implications for both the musician and the community, as the police investigation unfolds, aiming to address the troubling interference in cases that have left many feeling disenfranchised and unsafe. As the situation develops, calls for greater transparency and accountability within law enforcement grow louder, insisting on justice for all victims, regardless of stature or influence.
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