More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
Over 1,700 Britons in Legal Battle Over Cape Verde Illnesses
Legal representatives from Irwin Mitchell have confirmed that more than 1,700 individuals have enrolled in a lawsuit targeting Tui, following health issues experienced during holidays in Cape Verde. These cases include instances of illness as recent as two weeks ago. The legal team asserts that at least eight British citizens have died after trips to the West African archipelago over the past few years.
In February, UK health officials issued a warning to travelers about Cape Verde due to reports of gastrointestinal infections. Tui, however, has not yet released a formal statement, citing the absence of the complete health report from the country, which remains unpublished.
Illnesses Linked to Travel Packages
Jatinder Paul, a solicitor from Irwin Mitchell, emphasized the scale of the cases during a BBC Breakfast interview. “This is the largest case I’ve encountered in my career, and it’s heartbreaking that so many have lost their lives due to these illnesses,” he stated. The firm claims Tui had a duty to ensure holidays were free from health risks, which they failed to do.
“If we can’t resolve this through negotiation, we anticipate a High Court judge will order millions in compensation for our clients,” Paul added.
The legal action includes reports of gastric illnesses such as E. coli, salmonella, and shigella, as well as parasitic infections like cryptosporidium. Affected individuals range from infants to adults, with some cases involving severe complications.
Case of Elena Walsh
Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, succumbed to an illness after a Tui-arranged holiday at the RIU Cabo Verde resort. Her son Sean recounted how his mother’s condition worsened rapidly: “We stayed with her through the night, hoping she’d recover, but she just kept getting worse.” He urged others to avoid the destination, stating, “People can have great holidays there, but my mum didn’t.”
Tragic Outcome for Karen Pooley
Karen Pooley, 64, from Lydney, died from sepsis and multi-organ failure after a two-week Tui holiday in Cape Verde. She slipped on water from a leaking fridge while running to the bathroom, breaking her leg. Her daughter Liz expressed frustration, saying, “No family should endure this—no family should FaceTime their mum on a Friday night and by the next, arrange a funeral.”
RIU Hotels and Resorts defended its standards, stating its Cape Verde properties adhere to international health and hygiene protocols, verified by external consultants. Tui maintains it offers support to customers requiring medical attention, ensuring access to care during their stays.
