A former 28s gang member will serve life in prison for stabbing his ex-girlfriend 39 times at a Bonnievale bus stop after she ignored his text messages. Jerome Windvogel was convicted in Worcester Regional Court for the February 2023 murder of Nelnisha Kortjie, 36.
The victim’s mother witnessed the attack but was threatened when she tried to intervene, prosecutors told the court. Windvogel continued his assault, sitting on Kortjie while repeatedly stabbing her face, neck, arms, and legs.
Community members pursued Windvogel after the attack, leading to his swift arrest. Kortjie was pronounced dead at the scene.
Prosecutor Elton Willemse presented evidence of Windvogel’s violent criminal history dating back to 2006. The court heard how he refused to accept the end of their relationship, despite sharing children with Kortjie.
“This brutal attack shows complete disregard for the lives of not only the victim but also their shared children and her two other children,” Willemse said during the trial.
Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions Nicolette Bell emphasized the prosecution’s stance against gender-based violence. “This conviction sends a clear message that femicide will be met with the full force of the law,” Bell said in a statement.
The case has drawn attention to South Africa’s ongoing challenge with gender-based violence. Law enforcement data shows domestic violence remains a serious concern in the Western Cape region.
Windvogel’s sentencing took place at 14:00 local time (12:00 GMT) on Tuesday. The court heard that Kortjie had previously sought protection orders against him.
Criminal justice experts say the case highlights the need for stronger preventive measures against domestic violence, particularly in cases involving known violent offenders.
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The conviction comes as South African authorities face mounting pressure to address gender-based violence through stricter enforcement and improved victim protection services.
