Tragedy Strikes: Six British Tourists Die After Falling Ill in Cape Verde
A Growing Concern
Six British tourists have tragically lost their lives during holidays in Cape Verde due to a severe stomach bug, sparking severe alarm and outrage. Four of these deaths occurred in a disturbing wave between August and November 2025, raising concerns about the hygiene standards at the popular all-inclusive resorts in the region.
Who Are the Victims?
Among the deceased are:
- Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old mother and part-time nurse from Birmingham, who fell ill while celebrating her husband’s 60th birthday.
- Mark Ashley, 55, from Bedfordshire, who suffered a swift decline in health during a trip with his family.
- Karen Pooley, also 64, from Gloucestershire, who experienced a tragic slip leading to a fatal injury.
- An unnamed 56-year-old man, alongside two others—Jane Pressley, 62, from Gainsborough, who died in January 2023, and another unidentified individual in his 60s from Watford.
Legal Action and Public Outcry
Legal representatives, Irwin Mitchell, have stepped in to represent over 1,500 additional holidaymakers who have reported serious health issues after staying at resorts operated by Riu Hotels, particularly those associated with the travel operator TUI. Many tourists have voiced concerns regarding unsatisfactory cleanliness practices, poorly prepared food, and inadequate sanitation.
Reports of Poor Hygiene Standards
The families have reported alarming hygiene practices at the resorts. Relatives of the victims have highlighted experiences of meals being served lukewarm, sanitation standards not being met, and even water supplies being left exposed to sunlight, creating breeding grounds for bacteria.
Personal Stories of Loss
Mark and Emma Ashley had invested over £3,000 for a getaway at the five-star Riu Palace Santa Maria resort. Just days into their holiday, Mark began showing symptoms of severe illness, including abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever. Emma noted that they had expected a relaxing break, but the vacation turned into a nightmare shortly after they arrived.
Tragically, Mark’s health deteriorated quickly upon their return to the UK, leading to his untimely death just hours after being taken to the hospital.
Elena Walsh’s story was equally heartbreaking. Celebrating dual milestones on what was supposed to be a joyful holiday, she fell ill shortly after arriving at the Riu Cabo Verde resort. Symptoms escalated rapidly within just a week, and despite efforts to treat her, she passed away just two days after falling ill.
Distressing Medical Experiences
Concerns regarding the medical care provided to the ailing tourists have also surfaced. Patrick, Elena’s husband, expressed frustration over the chaotic and inadequate treatment she received during her illness. He mentioned how he and his family felt left in the dark about her condition, underscoring the need for clearer communication and improved medical protocols in tourist-heavy locations.
Tragic Incidents From Other Victims
Karen Pooley, on her holiday at the Riu Funana resort, experienced significant gastrointestinal distress leading to a fatal slip due to water leaking from a faulty refrigerator. Andy, her husband, shared how deeply affected they were by her death and voiced concerns about the realities of hygiene at the resort, confirming that their experience mirrored those of others.
Soaring Public and Legal Demand for Responsibility
As the mourning families pursue compensation claims against TUI, there is a growing call for a change in the standards maintained at these resorts. Jatinder Paul, a serious injury solicitor at Irwin Mitchell, emphasized that the scale of illnesses and recent fatalities at these resorts is alarming, calling for immediate scrutiny and improvement of hygiene practices.
RIU Hotels’ Response
In response to the uproar, a representative from RIU Hotels assured that the health and safety of their guests remain their top priority. They claim to adhere to stringent international health and hygiene standards, yet the recurring complaints from guests cannot be overlooked.
Urgency for Reform
The distressing situation of the British tourists has highlighted a pressing need for reform in resort hygiene and medical care protocols in Cape Verde. Families are seeking justice and answers not only for themselves but to ensure no one else endures such an unthinkable tragedy during what should be a time of joy and relaxation.
A Call for a Safer Holiday Experience
The recent deaths have underscored the fundamental responsibility of tour operators and hotels to protect their guests, raising serious questions regarding the tourism industry’s commitment to safety and hygiene practices. The families of those lost are not just numbers; they are real people with stories marked by loss, trauma, and a yearning for accountability.