Three South African nationals have appeared before the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court in connection with the alleged murder of 22-year-old Nigerian e-hailing driver Isaac Satlat in Pretoria West.
According to South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority, the suspects face charges of premeditated murder and robbery. Prosecutors allege that the accused used an unregistered phone number to request a ride before ambushing the driver.
Investigators say the victim was strangled and his vehicle and phone taken, with the incident reportedly captured by an in-car camera. The suspects have abandoned their bail application, and the case has been postponed to February 23 for further investigation.
Authorities confirmed that a fourth suspect later surrendered and is expected to appear in court.
Nigeria’s government has strongly condemned the killing through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).
The agency’s Chairperson, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, called for the swift prosecution of all those involved and expressed concern over recurring attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
She urged South African authorities to ensure justice is served and to strengthen protections for foreign nationals, stressing the longstanding ties between both countries and the need to safeguard lives and property.
