TUI has issued a statement following the tragic deaths of four British holidaymakers who became seriously ill while visiting Cape Verde, a tropical island destination off the coast of West Africa. Their grieving families are now seeking compensation and answers.
Among the deceased is Karen Pooley, 64, from Gloucestershire, alongside Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham, Mark Ashley from Bedfordshire, and a 56-year-old man. These four individuals died within a four-month span last year after falling severely ill during their trips to Cape Verde. They are part of six British tourists who have died since 2023 and belong to thousands who have reported debilitating stomach issues, including severe diarrhoea, contracted while on holiday there.
The families of all six have enlisted legal support against TUI, the travel operator through whom they booked their holidays. Ms Pooley had paid over £3,000 for her two-week holiday with TUI. After four days of illness, she suffered a fall caused by water leaking from a faulty refrigerator, which led to serious injuries and a critical airlift to a hospital in Tenerife. Her death certificate cited multiple organ failure, sepsis, cardio-respiratory arrest, and a fractured leg as causes of death, according to reports by the Mirror.
Emma Ashley, widow of Mark Ashley, revealed that they had also booked a holiday via TUI costing more than £3,000, expecting a relaxing break. Unfortunately, Mr Ashley became violently ill during the trip. His symptoms continued even after returning home, and he tragically passed away on November 12 following a collapse at their residence in Houghton Regis.
TUI has confirmed it is investigating the claims, as more than 1,500 individuals who fell ill following vacations to Cape Verde have sought legal assistance through the law firm Irwin Mitchell. Jatinder Paul, a serious injury solicitor at the firm, described the scale of reported illnesses as “staggering.”
Paul emphasized the ongoing concern about hygiene standards at Cape Verde resorts, stating, “The number of holidaymakers struck down with serious gastric illnesses at Cape Verde is unprecedented. These deaths highlight the severe impact of this crisis. Though nothing can undo this tragedy, we are dedicated to uncovering the truth and securing answers for those affected.”
A TUI spokesperson affirmed that the company is conducting a detailed investigation and ensures that guests who fall ill during their stay receive proper care and support. The spokesperson also noted that some guests do not report illnesses or request assistance during their holidays, which limits the help TUI can provide during their trips.