More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
Thousands of British Holidaymakers Sue Tui Over Cape Verde Illnesses
Over 1,700 UK residents have filed lawsuits against Tui, alleging they contracted illnesses during trips to Cape Verde. This number has grown as more individuals report health issues linked to their vacations there, according to Irwin Mitchell solicitors. Recent cases have been reported as recently as two weeks ago, with lawyers highlighting concerns about the safety of the holiday experience.
Legal Action Gathers Momentum
Irwin Mitchell’s team is currently handling personal injury claims, emphasizing that the company had a duty to ensure holidays were free from health risks. They suspect at least eight British citizens have died from illnesses connected to Cape Verde trips in recent years. Tui has not yet released a formal statement, citing its lack of access to the full health report, which remains unpublished.
“In my entire career, I’ve never dealt with a case of this scale. So many people are losing their lives due to these illnesses,” said Jatinder Paul, a solicitor with Irwin Mitchell. “Tui was responsible for taking our clients to a safe destination. Instead, they brought them into danger.”
The legal team has documented instances of gastric infections, including E. coli, salmonella, and shigella, as well as parasitic conditions like cryptosporidium. These illnesses have affected even infants as young as six months. In February, the UK Health Security Agency identified 112 shigella and 43 salmonella cases linked to Cape Verde since October 2025, underscoring the ongoing health concerns.
Cape Verde, a Portuguese former colony, remains a favored holiday spot due to its scenic beaches and consistent climate. Since 2022, Tui has accommodated over a million travelers there. However, lawyers have compiled evidence pointing to hygiene issues at some resorts, such as undercooked meals, flies near buffets, and mold in accommodations.
Tragic Stories Fuel the Claims
Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, died on 10 August after falling ill during a Tui holiday in Cape Verde. Her son Sean described how his mother’s condition worsened rapidly, leaving the family in distress. “We tried to save her, but she just kept getting worse,” he said. “I wish people would think twice before going there.”
Karen Pooley, 64, from Lydney, suffered a fall in October while seeking relief from stomach problems. The accident led to a broken leg and later sepsis, resulting in her death two days after being evacuated to Tenerife. Her daughter Liz criticized Tui, stating: “No family should endure this. We FaceTimed our mum on Friday, and by the next, we were arranging her funeral.”
Tui maintains it supports customers who fall ill, providing access to medical care and assistance. Despite this, the legal battle continues, with the potential for significant damages if the cases proceed to court. Irwin Mitchell anticipates a High Court ruling that could involve millions in compensation for affected clients.
