A British man in his 50s has tragically died following a gastric illness contracted during a holiday in Cape Verde, marking the seventh British tourist death in the archipelago since January 2023. The man fell critically ill while staying at the five-star Riu Palace Santa Maria on the island of Sal during a week-long all-inclusive holiday booked through TUI.
This heartbreaking case adds to a series of similar incidents involving British tourists who fell ill in Cape Verde. Earlier fatalities include Jane Pressley (62) from Gainsborough, Mark Ashley (55) from Bedfordshire, and Karen Pooley (64) from Gloucestershire. All had stayed at resorts on Sal and Boa Vista islands, where investigations have recently uncovered the presence of the shigella bacteria in irrigation water and fresh produce.
The latest victim’s wife shared that her husband suffered severe symptoms, including diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and vomiting, from just two days into their holiday. Despite efforts to continue the trip, his condition worsened over 12 weeks after returning home, culminating in multi-organ failure and his death in November 2025. The couple had spent more than £6,000 on the vacation.
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The woman expressed deep shock and devastation, emphasizing how the holiday had changed drastically from their previous visit and warning others about the risks. “We never imagined what should have been a joyful break would turn into such a tragedy,” she said.
Specialist solicitors at Irwin Mitchell are now supporting the family and over 1,700 other UK tourists who have suffered illness in Cape Verde since 2022. The firm highlights the potential severity of shigella infection—a highly contagious bacterium transmitted through contaminated food or water—and urges travellers to take precautionary measures such as eating only thoroughly cooked food and avoiding raw fruits and vegetables unless peeled.
Cape Verde authorities have confirmed bacteria presence in irrigation water but deny an outbreak, stating found levels were within surveillance norms. They have recommended businesses enhance disinfection and inspection protocols to safeguard public health.
Jatinder Paul, leading the legal team, emphasizes the importance of holding tour operators accountable for maintaining safe holiday conditions and advises affected individuals to seek legal advice before accepting any settlement offers. He warns that gastric illnesses can cause lifelong complications and should never be underestimated.
This series of tragic deaths shines a spotlight on ongoing hygiene concerns at Cape Verde’s resorts and the urgent need for improved safety measures to protect holidaymakers.