Over 1,700 British tourists have united in a legal action against travel giant Tui, following their illnesses while vacationing in the Cape Verde islands, according to legal representatives. The personal injury claim is being led by Irwin Mitchell, with lawyers reporting that individuals affected have been contacting them as recently as two weeks prior. Concerns have been raised that at least eight Britons have succumbed to the illnesses that struck during holidays in recent years.
In February, the UK’s health officials issued a warning to Britons about traveling to the West African archipelago, citing reports of stomach bugs. Tui, in the midst of an investigation into the claims, has stated it is “not in a position to provide a statement at this stage.”The company added that it “does not yet have access to the full Cape Verde health report, which remains unpublished.”.
Jatinder Paul of Irwin Mitchell solicitors emphasized the gravity of the situation during a BBC Breakfast interview, stating that “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.”The firm is pursuing damages of millions of pounds on behalf of their clients, who have reported contracting gastric illnesses including E. Coli, salmonella, shigella, and parasitic infections like cryptosporidium.
The youngest affected were children as young as six months old.
The UK Health Security Agency’s investigation revealed 112 cases of shigella and 43 of salmonella linked to travel to Cape Verde since October 2025. Shigella and salmonella are gastrointestinal infections capable of causing diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. Cape Verde, a former Portuguese colony, is renowned for its golden beaches and consistent warm weather, making it a popular holiday destination. Tui has transported more than one million holidaymakers to Cape Verde since 2022.
Lawyers have gathered evidence of problems at certain hotels in the country, including footage that appears to show undercooked food, buffets surrounded by flies, and mold in rooms. The lawyers previously mentioned six Britons’deaths but now believe the number is eight. Among the families affected is Elena Walsh and her family from Birmingham, who experienced a loss.
Walsh, 64, died in hospital after falling ill at the RIU Cabo Verde resort in August last year. Her son, Sean Walsh, urged caution, “I just want people to not go there. Because, yes, people can go on holidays there and come back and be fine, but my mum didn’t.”.
RIU Hotels and Resorts emphasized their commitment to guest health and safety, noting their adherence to international health and hygiene standards. Karen Pooley from Lydney also lost her life in October, following a holiday booked through Tui. Her daughter, Liz Pooley, blamed Tui for her mother’s death, “No family should go through this.”.
Tui, for its part, offered support to customers who fall ill, ensuring they have access to appropriate care and assistance.
Source: BBC Home – Breaking News, World News, US News, Sports, Business, Innovation, Climate, Culture, Travel, Video & Audio
