British Pensioner Feared Victim of Witchcraft Killing in South Africa
Investigators in South Africa believe a 71-year-old British tourist was murdered so her body parts could be used in a traditional witchcraft ritual known locally as Muti. Lorna McSorley from Devon vanished during a walking excursion last September while on a two-week holiday with her partner, Leon Probert, aged 81.
Disappearance During Scenic Walk
The couple, on a Tui package deal, had checked into the Ghost Mountain Inn on September 27, 2025, with plans to visit Kruger National Park. CCTV footage shows them leaving the hotel at 2.30pm for a walk to enjoy the local scenery and wildlife. After 30 minutes, Mr Probert decided to turn back, leaving Ms McSorley alone with an A4 map outlining a three-mile circular route to a lake.
Her last known sighting was by local farmer Koos Prinsloo, who reported she appeared relaxed when she asked for directions, having strayed from her planned path. She declined his offer of a lift home. Mr Probert raised the alarm at 5.30pm when she failed to return, 90 minutes after her expected completion time.
Extensive Search Yields No Trace
A large-scale search operation involving farmers, volunteers, dogs, boats, and drones was launched, but no sign of Ms McSorley was found. The only item recovered was her map. Her bank card, which she was carrying, was never used, and her body has not been located, leading to suspicions of foul play.
Muti Witchcraft Practices Under Scrutiny
Detectives now suspect she may have been killed for Muti, a traditional medicine practice in South Africa's northern regions like KwaZulu-Natal. Derived from the Zulu word Umuthi, Muti involves using plants and natural products, but in rare cases, human body parts are sought through so-called Muti killings. These parts are typically sourced by scouts rather than healers themselves.
Local Muti associations have condemned the use of human parts, stating it contradicts accepted beliefs. The town of Mkuze, near where the couple stayed, has a Muti market, and locals report it as a significant risk, with dozens, including children, believed to have vanished due to the practice.
Family's Anguish and Guilt
Ms McSorley's elder brother, Geoff Sheward, described a Muti killing as the worst imaginable fate, adding she must have been frightened to death. Mr Probert expressed deep guilt for leaving her during the walk, saying, I have a guilt that, if I hadn't returned to the hotel and stayed with her, the chances are that nothing would have happened. He believes her lack of recovery points to abduction for body parts.
Ongoing Investigations and Responses
The search was paused on October 4, 2025, as investigators pursued other leads. KwaZulu-Natal police declined to comment on private investigations. The Ghost Mountain Inn emphasised guest safety as its highest priority, noting many visitors undertake the lake walk with or without guides.
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed support for the family and contact with local authorities. The case highlights ongoing concerns about safety and traditional practices in the region, with the community and authorities continuing to seek answers.
