Nigerian student killed in South Africa while driving for Bolt weeks before graduation
A 22-year-old Nigerian student, Isaac Satlat, has been killed in Pretoria, South Africa, just weeks before he was due to graduate.
Satlat, who supported himself by working as a Bolt e-hailing driver, was allegedly attacked on February 11, 2026, in Pretoria West after picking up passengers who had booked a ride through the app.
According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo, preliminary investigations indicate that the driver was attacked by a man and a woman during the trip. His hijacked vehicle and body were later discovered in Atteridgeville on the same day.
Arrest and investigation
Gauteng police have arrested a woman in connection with the case. She is expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on February 16, 2026, facing charges of murder and carjacking.
Police say investigations are ongoing and more arrests are expected.
Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni has assigned a senior detective to confirm details of the incident and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Video circulation
A dash cam video circulating on social media appears to show the assault inside the vehicle. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has strongly condemned the sharing of the footage.
“The police strongly condemn the circulation of the video that depicts what appears to be a gruesome murder of the victim,” said Masondo.
Authorities have urged the public not to share, forward or repost the video.
Satlat was reportedly preparing to graduate next month and had plans to relocate to Canada for further studies.
His death has sparked outrage, particularly among Nigerians, and revived concerns about the safety of foreign nationals working in South Africa’s gig economy.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
