A legal representative for nearly 2,000 individuals pursuing legal action against Tui for sickness in Cape Verde has appealed to the travel company as the cases are heading to the High Court. Over 1,700 people have joined a personal injury lawsuit against the German firm following illnesses in the west African archipelago. Irwin Mitchell lawyers have reported an increasing number of individuals claiming to have contracted gastric illnesses such as E coli, salmonella, shigella, and parasitic infections like cryptosporidium during Tui package holidays.
One of the leading lawyers involved has urgently called on Tui to engage in discussions, highlighting the potential for a substantial financial settlement. Jatinder Paul, speaking to the Mirror, disclosed that close to 2,000 individuals are part of the legal action and stressed the importance of Tui cooperating to resolve the cases amicably. Failure to reach an agreement may result in prolonged legal battles in court.
Paul emphasized that Tui has disputed liability in all cases, necessitating litigation in the High Court. He urged Tui to collaborate to reach a resolution, warning of the possibility of taking the cases to trial and seeking a court order. Paul expressed dismay over the significant number of fatalities resulting from the illnesses, describing the situation as unprecedented.
Several individuals, including Elena Walsh, Mark Ashley, and Karen Pooley, lost their lives during trips to Cape Verde. Additional casualties, including two unidentified men in their 50s, were also reported in 2025. Families who have lost loved ones due to severe illnesses while on holiday are part of the legal proceedings, with Paul highlighting the emotional toll on these families.
Moreover, other holidaymakers suffered severe health issues, with Alisha Hussain experiencing a traumatic ordeal during her trip to Cape Verde. Hussain fell seriously ill, requiring emergency medical attention upon her return to the UK. She described her holiday turning into a nightmare due to sickness and inadequate conditions at the resort.
Tui issued a statement expressing condolences to the affected families and emphasizing their commitment to customer health and safety as a top priority. The company stated that appropriate measures are in place to support unwell customers during their holidays, in accordance with government advice and collaboration with relevant authorities.
