TUI Faces Massive Lawsuit After Eight Britons Die Following Cape Verde Holidays
Over 1,700 British tourists are suing TUI after severe illness outbreaks in Cape Verde. Lawyers report at least eight deaths linked to the holiday destination.
Massive Legal Claim Targets Travel Giant Over Cape Verde Health Crisis
The UK’s largest holiday provider, TUI, is facing a significant legal battle as more than 1,700 British tourists have joined a group action lawsuit following a wave of severe illnesses during vacations in Cape Verde. Lawyers leading the case have revealed that at least eight Britons are now believed to have died after visiting the West African archipelago in recent years.
The personal injury claim, spearheaded by law firm Irwin Mitchell, alleges that holidaymakers contracted dangerous gastric infections, including E. coli, salmonella, shigella, and cryptosporidium. Those affected range from elderly travelers to infants as young as six months old.
A Growing List of Fatalities
The scale of the crisis has escalated recently. While previous reports linked six deaths to Cape Verde holidays since January 2023, lawyers now state that figure has risen to eight.
Among the victims was 64-year-old Elena Walsh from Birmingham, who died in August last year after falling ill at the five-star RIU Cabo Verde resort. Her son, Sean Walsh, described a rapid deterioration: "She just deteriorated... I’d say to people: don’t go."
Another victim, Karen Pooley, 64, died in October from sepsis and multi-organ failure. Her family alleges that her illness was compounded by a fall on a leaking fridge in her room while she was suffering from gastric symptoms. Her daughter, Liz Pooley, stated she holds TUI responsible for the tragedy.
The personal injury claim, spearheaded by law firm Irwin Mitchell , alleges that holidaymakers contracted dangerous gastric infections, including E.
Allegations of Poor Hygiene
Lawyers for the claimants have gathered evidence from various resorts, including footage purportedly showing:
- Undercooked food served at buffets.
- Flies swarming around food preparation areas.
- Mould present in guest rooms.
"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 of Irwin Mitchell. He noted that the firm continues to be contacted by newly symptomatic travelers as recently as two weeks ago.
Official Warnings and Corporate Response
In February, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a formal warning to travelers following a spike in gastrointestinal infections. Data from the agency showed 112 cases of shigella and 43 cases of salmonella linked to Cape Verde since late 2022.
TUI, which has transported over one million passengers to the islands since 2022, stated it is investigating the claims but cannot provide a full statement until it has access to the unpublished Cape Verde health report. The company maintains that it provides support to any customers who become unwell while on their trips.
RIU Hotels and Resorts defended its operations, asserting that its properties follow the "strictest international health and hygiene standards" and are regularly audited by external consultants.
If the parties cannot reach an amicable settlement, lawyers expect the case to move to the High Court, where damages could reach millions of pounds.
For now, the legal team warns that the risks remain high for those planning to visit the popular "year-round sun" destination.
