‘Justice for Isaac’: Three accused remain in custody as Pretoria mourns Bolt driver

Pretoria stands united for Isaac

The Pretoria Magistrate’s Court was tense on Monday as three suspects in the murder of 22-year-old Bolt driver Isaac Satlat chose to remain in custody, abandoning their bail applications. Outside the courthouse, e-hailing drivers and community members rallied in solidarity, chanting in unison: “Justice for Isaac!”

The accusedDikeledi Tears Phela, Gositsiane Machidi, and McClaren Mushwana, face charges of premeditated murder and aggravated robbery in connection with the fatal attack that shook the city last week.

The tragic events of February 11

Isaac Satlat, a young Nigerian national working as an e-hailing driver in Pretoria West, was allegedly attacked after responding to a ride request on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. His vehicle and body were later discovered abandoned in Atteridgeville, a grim scene captured on camera and widely circulated on social media, igniting national outrage.

The murder highlighted the risks faced by drivers on digital platforms, prompting widespread calls for improved safety measures. Social media has since been flooded with messages of grief, outrage, and solidarity, with fellow drivers sharing images of Satlat and urging authorities to act swiftly.

Court proceedings and ongoing investigations

The three accused made a brief appearance before Magistrate’s Court on Monday, with the matter postponed to 23 February to allow further investigation. Gauteng police confirmed that a fourth suspect is still at large, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing.

Earlier in the week, police had also confirmed two additional male suspects, aged 30 and 26, who joined the 25-year-old female suspect already in custody. Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo stated:

“All suspects are expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court facing charges that include car hijacking and murder. Investigations are ongoing, and officers are still searching for another suspect.”

Calls for better safety measures

Outside the courtroom, the voices of the community were loud and clear. E-hailing drivers, family members, and concerned residents staged a picket demanding that government and ride-hailing companies implement stronger protections for drivers, such as improved tracking, emergency response measures, and stricter vetting of passengers.

Local social media forums have reflected the public’s frustration, with many users highlighting that Satlat’s murder is not an isolated incident but part of a growing pattern of violence targeting ride-hailing workers.

A city mourning, a country watching

Isaac Satlat’s death has left Pretoria grappling with grief and anger, while authorities are under pressure to act decisively. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities e-hailing drivers face daily, especially when operating alone in high-risk areas.

As the investigation continues, the communityand South Africaawaits justice. The hope is that, beyond punishment, Satlat’s tragic death will spur meaningful changes in policy and safety for all ride-hailing drivers.

{Source: IOL}

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