Full Breakdown
TUI Faces £5 Million Lawsuit Over Cape Verde Illness Outbreak
2/10/2026, 6:45:41 PM
Overview of the Lawsuit
Travel company TUI is embroiled in a lawsuit seeking over £5 million in damages from approximately 300 holidaymakers who allege they contracted severe gastric illnesses during their stays at the Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel in Cape Verde in 2022. The claims, which include allegations of improperly prepared food, unhygienic swimming facilities, and poor sanitation, are part of a broader pattern of reported illnesses affecting over 1,500 tourists in the region.
Details of the Claims
The claimants, all of whom stayed at the hotel on an all-inclusive basis, report symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, either during their stay or shortly after returning home. Among the claimants is Michael Pressley, whose wife, Jane Pressley, died in January 2023 after falling ill during their holiday. Other claimants have reported ongoing health issues, including chronic fatigue syndrome and significant weight loss.
The case, which is being defended by TUI, is set for a six-week trial at the High Court scheduled for late next year. The judge has ordered that 30 lead claimants will present evidence that reflects the experiences of the larger group, focusing on their dietary habits and the conditions at the hotel.
Health Concerns and Official Responses
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued warnings regarding travel to Cape Verde, linking recent cases of shigella and salmonella to the region. Since October 1, 2025, 118 cases of shigella and 43 of salmonella have been reported, with a significant majority of those affected having traveled to Cape Verde. Health authorities recommend that travelers consume freshly prepared food, drink bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice in drinks.
Jatinder Paul, an international serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, emphasized the seriousness of the illnesses reported, stating that they can lead to long-term health complications and, in some cases, can be fatal.
Criticism and Opposition
TUI has denied liability for the claims, asserting that they are not responsible for the alleged health issues. Critics of the hotel’s management have raised concerns about hygiene standards, citing the presence of stray dogs and cockroaches as contributing factors to the outbreak of illnesses. The ongoing legal proceedings highlight the significant impact of these health issues on the lives of the affected holidaymakers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The impact of serious gastric illnesses should never be downplayed. They can lead to long-term health complications, and in some cases, can even prove fatal.” — Jatinder Paul, International Serious Injury Lawyer
- “Since the holiday, I’ve struggled to socialise or eat out with friends as I’m anxious about my bowel issues,” — Nicky Morley, Lead Claimant
What's Next
The upcoming trial will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the claims against TUI and may set a precedent for similar cases involving holidaymakers who have suffered health issues while traveling. The legal proceedings will also continue to draw attention to health and safety standards in tourist accommodations in Cape Verde.
