News that a Bolt driver had been killed in Pretoria West prompted a response from veteran broadcaster DJ Fresh.
The well-known radio personality publicly raised serious questions following the incident. In a country where ride-hailing services form part of everyday transport for thousands of people, the tragedy has once again placed the spotlight on safety and accountability.
A tragedy in Pretoria West
The incident involving the Bolt driver in Pretoria has drawn renewed attention to the risks faced by drivers working in the gig economy.
For many South Africans, platforms such as Bolt provide a flexible way to earn an income. Drivers often work independently, covering long hours and travelling across different neighbourhoods at various times of the day and night.
The killing in Pretoria West has highlighted the vulnerability that can come with that independence. Behind every trip accepted through an app is a person trying to provide for themselves or their families.
DJ Fresh’s response
DJ Fresh did not issue an extended statement, but he posed direct and thought-provoking questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. His focus centred on driver protection and what more can be done to ensure safer working conditions.
Rather than making accusations, he asked the kind of questions many South Africans may already be thinking. What safeguards are in place? How effective are they? And how can drivers feel more secure while doing their jobs?
His comments brought attention back to a difficult reality that often fades after headlines move on.
STIR THE POT
Bolt has confirmed that the murdered 22-year-old e-hailing driver, Isaac Satlat, was operating under a prohibited “profile sharing” arrangement when he was killed in Pretoria.
Because the account wasn’t his own, the company says he is not eligible for compensation.…
— DJ Fresh (Big Dawg) (@DJFreshSA) February 19, 2026
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The wider safety conversation
Ride-hailing services have transformed urban transport across South Africa. They offer convenience to passengers and income opportunities to drivers who might otherwise struggle to find work.
At the same time, incidents involving drivers have periodically raised concerns about safety within the industry. Each new case reopens discussions around verification systems, emergency support, and collaboration with law enforcement.
The Pretoria West tragedy has once again placed those issues under scrutiny.
Can’t wait for the future… pic.twitter.com/MOr5CXjBt1
— RUN DM-X (@NonkosiMsimang) February 19, 2026
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Why this moment matters
The killing of the Bolt driver is not just another news item. It reflects the broader tension between opportunity and risk within South Africa’s fast-growing app-based transport sector.
As conversations continue, the questions raised serve as a reminder that safety cannot be treated as secondary. Drivers play a crucial role in keeping cities moving. Ensuring their protection remains an ongoing priority.
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Source: Briefly News
Featured Image: Sunday Standard
