TUI has issued a statement following the tragic deaths of four British tourists who fell seriously ill during holidays on Cape Verde, an island group off West Africa’s coast. The families of the deceased, devastated by their losses, are now seeking answers and pursuing compensation.
Karen Pooley, 64, from Gloucestershire, along with Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham, Mark Ashley, from Bedfordshire, and a 56-year-old man all died within a four-month period last year after traveling to Cape Verde. These four are part of six British holidaymakers who have died since 2023 following reported severe gastrointestinal illnesses contracted there.
Thousands of tourists have claimed to suffer debilitating stomach conditions, including persistent diarrhoea, prompted by their visits to Cape Verde. The bereaved families are holding TUI responsible, as the operator through which the holidays were booked.
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Ms. Pooley spent more than £3,000 on her two-week holiday via TUI. After falling ill for four days, she slipped on water caused by a faulty refrigerator and was airlifted to a hospital in Tenerife for emergency treatment. Her death certificate cited multiple organ failure, sepsis, cardio-respiratory arrest, and a fractured leg as causes of death.
Mrs. Emma Ashley, widow of Mark Ashley, shared that the couple expected a relaxing break after booking their holiday for over £3,000 with TUI. However, Mr. Ashley became violently ill during the trip. Despite notifying TUI on October 9, his symptoms continued after returning to the UK, and he tragically died at their home in Houghton Regis on November 12.
TUI confirmed it is investigating these claims amid growing legal action. Thousands of affected tourists have sought representation from law firm Irwin Mitchell, which is currently handling over 1,500 cases related to illnesses contracted in Cape Verde. Serious injury solicitor Jatinder Paul described the volume of cases as “staggering” and expressed deep concern about ongoing hygiene issues at Cape Verde resorts.
Paul emphasized the unprecedented scale and duration of these sickness outbreaks at the same destination. “These recent deaths underscore the seriousness of the situation,” he said. “Our clients have grave concerns about sanitation standards in Cape Verde. While nothing can undo these tragedies, we aim to uncover the truth and obtain justice for those affected.”
In response, a TUI spokesperson stressed the company is conducting a thorough investigation and maintaining that holidaymakers receive appropriate care and support if they fall ill. They also noted some guests fail to report illness or request assistance during their stays, limiting the support TUI can offer.