What happened to British tourist Lorna McSorley in South Africa?

Lorna McSorley vanished five days into a holiday in northern KwaZulu-Natal and has not been seen since, leading to fears of foul play.

Why is witchcraft linked to Lorna McSorley's disappearance?

Experts and locals suggest McSorley may have been targeted for her body parts for use in 'muti,' a witchcraft practice believed to bring strength and wealth.

Is ritualistic killing common in KwaZulu-Natal?

Local officials and laborers in Mkuze report that disappearances linked to 'muti' are common in the region.

Home / Crime and Justice / British Tourist Feared Harvested for 'Muti' in South Africa

British Tourist Feared Harvested for 'Muti' in South Africa

6 Feb

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Summary

British tourist Lorna McSorley vanished five days into a South African holiday.
Investigators found phone data showing three devices near where her map was found.
Locals and experts suggest her body parts may have been sought for witchcraft.

British Tourist Feared Harvested for 'Muti' in South Africa

Lorna McSorley, a 71-year-old British tourist, disappeared five days into a package holiday in South Africa's northern KwaZulu-Natal province on September 27, 2025. She was last seen alone near Mkuze after her partner returned to their hotel due to the heat. A massive six-day search yielded no clues, and her bank card has not been used.

Investigators later obtained mobile phone 'dump' data suggesting three phones converged at the location where McSorley's map was found, remaining for 15 minutes before dispersing. However, police stated they had no such data. This has fueled speculation of foul play.

Experts and locals point to the disturbing possibility that McSorley was killed for her body parts to be used in 'muti,' a form of witchcraft believed by some to bring strength and wealth. Zulu culture expert Jacob Sabelo Ntshangase noted that body parts from white individuals are particularly sought after.