By Ghazali Ibrahim
A Pretoria Magistrate’s Court has ordered that three suspects accused of murdering a 22-year-old Nigerian student and e-hailing driver be remanded in custody as investigations continue.
The suspects, Dikeledi Mphela (25), Gotseone Machidi (26) and McClaren Mushwana (30), appeared before the court on Monday and were instructed to remain in detention until February 23, 2026, when the next hearing will take place.
The trio faces charges of murder and carjacking in connection with the killing of Isaac Satlat, a Nigerian national who was studying mobile engineering and working as an e-hailing driver in Pretoria West.
According to local reports, Satlat was killed on February 11 after accepting a ride request from passengers who allegedly attacked him while he was behind the wheel. Dashboard camera footage circulating on social media is reported to show the suspects strangling him during the incident.
During Monday’s court session, the suspects declined to apply for bail and chose to stay in custody while further investigations continue.
A fourth suspect has reportedly surrendered to police and is expected to be arraigned separately, also on charges including carjacking and murder.
Outside the court, members of e-hailing associations and civil society groups staged a demonstration calling for justice for Satlat, describing him as a respected member of the community and demanding enhanced safety for drivers working on digital platforms.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has also praised the solidarity shown by South African authorities and members of the public, saying it will continue to monitor the legal process to ensure transparency and justice for Satlat’s family and the Nigerian community abroad.
The next court appearance is scheduled for 23 February 2026, as prosecutors continue to build their case and police pursue the remaining suspect.
