The fourth suspect wanted in connection with the murder of 22-year-old e-hailing driver Isaac Satlat has handed himself over to police in Atteridgeville on Monday.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. He faces charges of murder and car hijacking, the same charges brought against his three co-accused.
His surrender follows Monday’s court appearance of Dikeledi Tears Phela, Gositsiane Machidi and Tinyiko McClaren Mushwana, aged between 25 and 30, who are charged with premeditated murder, hijacking and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The trio abandoned their bail application during proceedings, and the matter was postponed to February 23, for further investigation.
Isaac Satlat was allegedly attacked and killed on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in Pretoria West while inside his vehicle. Investigators believe the killing occurred during a hijacking.
SAPS had earlier confirmed the arrest of two additional suspects who joined a third suspect apprehended on February 13. At the time, police indicated they were searching for a fourth suspect.
During Monday’s proceedings, National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana confirmed the accused had opted not to proceed with bail.
“So, three accused persons appeared before the court this morning. Ranging from age 30 to 25, they are facing a charge of premeditated murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. In court, they opted to abandon their application, and the matter was postponed to the 23rd of February for further investigations,” she said.
The surrender of the fourth suspect marks a significant development in the case, which has intensified concerns over the safety of e-hailing drivers operating in Pretoria.
Scores of e-hailing drivers gathered outside the courthouse in a show of solidarity, calling for improved safety measures and greater protection within the industry on Monday.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star