Gauteng police have arrested two more suspects in connection with the brutal murder of 22-year-old e-hailing driver Isaac Satlat, bringing the total number of arrests to three as the manhunt for a fourth suspect intensifies.
Satlat, who was operating on the Bolt platform, was allegedly lured to his death after a male and female posed as passengers and requested a trip in Pretoria West.
Provincial police spokesperson Mavela Masondo said the victim was killed on Wednesday, February 11.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the victim was murdered by a male and female who requested the service of an e-hailing in Pretoria West. The hijacked vehicle and the body of the victim were found in Atteridgeville on the same day,” said Masondo.
Two male suspects, aged 30 and 26, were arrested over the weekend and will join a 25-year-old suspect who was apprehended on Friday, February 13. All three are expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrate's Court on Monday, February 16, facing charges of murder and car hijacking.
Masondo confirmed that police are still searching for a fourth suspect believed to be linked to the crime.
The killing has sent shockwaves through the e-hailing community and sparked outrage over the safety of drivers who risk their lives daily to earn a living.
MMC for Roads and Transport Tlangi Nnoke condemned the attack in the strongest terms, describing it as a senseless act of violence that underscores the dangers faced by operators.
“The Office of Roads and Transport is deeply saddened by the circulating video of the violent attack on an e-hailing operator allegedly in Pretoria West and would like to condemn the incident in the strongest possible terms,” she said.
“The despicable and violent way the operator was taken points to a violent act of crime in this country and also highlights the plight of e-hailing operators when it comes to their safety. No one should lose their life or be harmed while trying to earn an honest living. Drivers play a critical role in keeping our transport system functioning and supporting the livelihoods of their families and those they ferry on a daily basis.”
Nnoke added that an attack on a driver is an attack on the dignity of work and the stability of communities, vowing that her office would continue working with law enforcement and transport stakeholders to ensure the safety of all road users.
In a statement, Bolt said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragic incident involving a driver operating on its platform.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the company said.
“We are working closely with law enforcement authorities and will provide all necessary information to support their investigation and help bring those responsible to justice.
“We are conducting a thorough internal review of this case and will take any additional measures necessary to strengthen enforcement and enhance safety on the platform.”
The Star