More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
Lawyers representing over 1,700 British individuals have confirmed that they are pursuing legal claims against Tui, following illnesses contracted during holidays in Cape Verde. The cases involve tourists who reportedly became unwell as recently as two weeks ago, with concerns growing over potential health hazards in the West African archipelago.
Eight Deaths Linked to Cape Verde Trips
Irwin Mitchell solicitors, leading the personal injury claims, estimate that at least eight Britons have died after holidays in Cape Verde in recent years. This figure has increased from six previously reported, prompting renewed scrutiny of the travel company’s responsibility in ensuring safe conditions for its customers.
“In all my years of doing this work, I have not seen a case this large and unfortunately so many that have died as a result of the illnesses,” said Jatinder Paul, a solicitor from Irwin Mitchell. “We are pursuing all of our cases against Tui. They had a responsibility in taking our clients away on a package holiday which was not going to cause them any illness. Unfortunately it was the opposite of that.”
Health Warnings and Ongoing Investigation
In February, UK health officials raised alarms about travel to Cape Verde after reports of gastrointestinal infections. Tui, which has sent over a million holidaymakers to the island nation since 2022, is currently investigating the claims. However, it has stated it is “not in a position to provide a statement at this stage,” citing lack of access to the full Cape Verde health report, which remains unpublished.
Illnesses and Hotel Conditions
Claims include gastric infections like E. coli, salmonella, and shigella, as well as parasitic diseases such as cryptosporidium. Victims range from infants to adults, with some cases involving severe complications. Evidence gathered by the lawyers highlights issues at certain Cape Verde hotels, including undercooked food, fly-infested buffets, and mold in rooms.
Case Details and Family Accounts
Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, fell ill during a Tui-organized trip to the RIU Cabo Verde resort. She was hospitalized on August 8, 2025, and passed away two days later. Her son Sean Walsh described the rapid decline: “Through the night, we were there with her trying to see if she’d pull out of it, but she just deteriorated.”
“I just want people to not go there,” Sean added. “Because, yes people can go on holidays there and come back and be fine but my mum didn’t. If people are willing to run that risk, then go for it but I’d say to people: don’t.”
Karen Pooley, from Lydney, died in October 2025 after slipping on water from a leaking fridge while visiting Cape Verde. She was airlifted to Tenerife and succumbed to sepsis and multi-organ failure. Her daughter Liz Pooley expressed frustration: “No family should go through this, no family should have to FaceTime their mum on a Friday night, and by the following Friday, organise a funeral.”
Hotel Response and Tui’s Stance
RIU Hotels and Resorts defended its standards, stating that its Cape Verde properties adhere to “strictest international health and hygiene standards” verified by external consultants. Tui reiterated its commitment to supporting affected customers, ensuring they receive appropriate care and assistance during their stays.
The ongoing legal battle aims to secure millions of pounds in damages for the victims, with hopes of holding Tui accountable for the health risks posed during its package holidays.