Three suspects accused of murdering a young e-hailing driver made their first appearance before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court following the fatal incident that has left a Pretoria family devastated.
Dikeledi Tears Phela, Gositsiane Machidi, and McClaren Mushwana briefly appeared in court in connection with the alleged murder of 22-year-old Isaac Satlat. The trio is facing serious charges, including murder and carjacking, stemming from the deadly attack in Pretoria West.
According to information presented in court, Satlat was working as an e-hailing driver at the time of the incident. It is alleged that he was attacked during what is believed to have been a planned robbery. Authorities claim that the suspects fatally assaulted him before taking his vehicle.
The young driver’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly among fellow e-hailing drivers who say they continue to face increasing risks while on duty. Many drivers rely on platforms such as Bolt to earn a living, often working long hours and picking up passengers in unfamiliar areas.
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During the brief court proceedings, the accused stood side by side in the dock as the charges against them were formally read out.
The State indicated that investigations are still ongoing and that more details surrounding the circumstances of the incident may emerge as the case progresses.
The matter was postponed to allow for further investigation and for the accused to prepare for possible bail applications. It remains unclear at this stage whether the State will oppose bail.
Family members of Satlat were present in court, visibly emotional as proceedings unfolded. Outside the courtroom, relatives described the 22-year-old as a hardworking and respectful young man who was trying to build a better future for himself and his loved ones.
Community members have since called for greater safety measures to protect e-hailing drivers, urging both law enforcement and ride-hailing companies to strengthen security systems. Some drivers have proposed stricter passenger verification processes and improved emergency response features within ride-hailing apps.
The tragic killing once again highlights the dangers faced by drivers in the growing e-hailing industry, particularly in high-risk areas. Police have appealed to anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward as investigations continue.
The three accused are expected to return to court on a later date as the legal process unfolds. Meanwhile, the family of Isaac Satlat continues to seek justice, hoping that the court proceedings will bring them some measure of closure following the heartbreaking loss of their son.
