Justice for Isaac Satlat: Fourth accused appears in court over Pretoria Bolt driver murder

A fourth accused in the murder of 22-year-old Bolt driver Isaac Satlat is scheduled to appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday after handing himself over to police in Atteridgeville on Monday.

His appearance follows Monday’s brief court proceedings in which three co-accused — Dikeledi Tears Phela, Gositsiane Machidi and McClaren Mushwana — abandoned their bail applications. The trio remain in custody, with the matter postponed to February 23 to allow for further investigations.

Gauteng police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed that the accused face charges of premeditated murder, aggravated robbery and hijacking.

The charges stem from the events of February 11, 2026, when Satlat, a Nigerian national, allegedly responded to a ride request in Pretoria West. He was attacked, and his vehicle and body were later discovered in Atteridgeville.

As previously reported by IOL, graphic footage of the killing circulated widely on social media, sparking national outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of e-hailing drivers. The case has drawn significant public attention, with supporters gathering outside court this week chanting “Justice for Isaac” and calling for harsher consequences for those responsible.

The killing has reignited debate around the risks faced by digital platform drivers, particularly those operating at night or in high-crime areas, with industry stakeholders urging stronger safety interventions and collaboration between law enforcement and e-hailing companies.

Police investigations are ongoing.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

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