More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui

More than 1,700 Britons Ill in Cape Verde Sue Tui

Legal representatives from Irwin Mitchell, overseeing personal injury claims, confirmed to the BBC that over 1,700 British individuals have joined lawsuits against Tui after falling ill during holidays in Cape Verde. The cases involve travelers who reported symptoms as recently as two weeks ago, with some families alleging fatalities linked to the destination. A revised estimate now places the number of deaths at eight since 2023, up from a prior claim of six.

In February, UK health authorities issued a caution regarding travel to Cape Verde, citing reports of stomach bugs. Tui, which has transported over a million holidaymakers to the West African archipelago since 2022, is currently examining the allegations and has yet to issue a formal statement. The company noted it lacks access to the full Cape Verde health report, which remains unpublished.

“In all my years of doing this work, I have not seen a case this large,” said Jatinder Paul, a solicitor from Irwin Mitchell. “Unfortunately, so many have died as a result of the illnesses.” Paul emphasized that Tui had a duty to ensure holidays were free from health risks, adding that the firm is pursuing all cases and could seek millions in damages if settlements fail.

The firm reports cases involving gastric illnesses such as E. coli and salmonella, along with parasitic infections like cryptosporidium. Affected individuals include children as young as six months old. Evidence includes footage showing undercooked food, buffets surrounded by flies, and mold in rooms. The UK Health Security Agency previously linked 112 shigella cases and 43 salmonella cases to Cape Verde travel since October 2025.

Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, fell ill during a Tui-arranged trip to Cape Verde last year. She was hospitalized and died on 10 August, after deteriorating rapidly. Her son, Sean Walsh, told BBC Breakfast: “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.”

Karen Pooley, from Lydney, died in October following a two-week Tui holiday in Cape Verde. She slipped on water leaking from a fridge, breaking her leg, and later succumbed to sepsis and multi-organ failure. Her daughter, Liz Pooley, blamed Tui, stating: “No family should go through this… by the following Friday, organise a funeral.”

RIU Hotels and Resorts, which operates the Cape Verde resorts, said it prioritizes guest safety. The company claims its facilities adhere to international health and hygiene standards, verified by external consultancy firms. Tui reiterated its commitment to supporting customers who fall ill, ensuring access to care and assistance.