The brutal murder of Nigerian e-hailing driver Isaac Satlat has shaken Pretoria, sparking outrage among fellow drivers and reigniting debates about safety in South Africa’s gig economy. Three suspects — Dikeledi Tears Phela, Gositsiane Machidi, and McClaren Mushwana — appeared in court this week, abandoning their bail application as the case against them grows stronger.
The Crime
Satlat, who worked for Bolt, was found dead after what police described as a violent attack. Investigators believe he was lured by passengers before being assaulted and killed. His vehicle was later recovered, but the crime has left the e-hailing community fearful and angry.
Friends and colleagues described Satlat as hardworking and dedicated. One fellow driver said: “Isaac was just trying to make a living. He didn’t deserve this. We want justice.”
Court Proceedings
The suspects appeared at the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court, where they faced charges of murder and robbery. The courtroom was tense, with supporters of Satlat chanting “Justice for Isaac” outside.
Prosecutors argued that the evidence against the accused was strong, including witness statements and forensic findings. Defence lawyers initially sought bail but later withdrew the application, citing the seriousness of the charges.
The case has now been postponed to allow further investigation, with police expected to present additional evidence at the next hearing.
Community Reaction
The murder has sparked outrage among e-hailing drivers, many of whom say they face constant threats from criminals. Drivers gathered outside the court, holding placards and demanding better protection.
One driver explained: “We are vulnerable. Every time we pick up a passenger, we don’t know if we will make it home. The government and companies must do more to protect us.”
The incident has also raised concerns about xenophobia, as foreign nationals often face additional risks. Nigerian community leaders have called for calm but urged authorities to ensure justice is served.
Broader Issues
The killing highlights the dangers faced by e-hailing drivers in South Africa. While platforms like Bolt and Uber have transformed urban transport, they have also exposed drivers to new risks.
Criminals often target drivers for their vehicles, cash, or personal belongings. In some cases, drivers have been assaulted or even killed. Despite repeated calls for action, many feel that authorities have not done enough to address the problem.
Government Response
Police Minister Bheki Cele has acknowledged the challenges facing e-hailing drivers, promising stronger measures to improve safety. However, critics argue that promises have not translated into real change.
Civil society groups have urged the government to work with e-hailing companies to introduce stricter safety protocols, such as improved passenger verification and emergency response systems.
The Human Cost
For Satlat’s family, the tragedy is deeply personal. Relatives in Nigeria have expressed grief, saying he moved to South Africa to build a better life. His death has left them devastated and struggling to understand why he was targeted.
The family of Isaac Satlat, is seeking public assistance to raise funds to repatriate his remains to his home country.
Satlat’s uncle, Otila Onoja, has made an emotional plea for financial support to return his nephew's body to Nigeria for burial. A BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign has been launched to facilitate the repatriation, with a goal of R70,000.
Community members have rallied around the family, raising funds to support them and calling for solidarity across racial and national lines.
Looking Ahead
The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with prosecutors determined to secure convictions. For many, the case represents more than just justice for Satlat — it is a test of whether South Africa can protect vulnerable workers in its growing gig economy.
As one activist put it: “If we fail to protect drivers like Isaac, we fail as a society. This case must send a message that violence will not be tolerated.”
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