The dream of a relaxing holiday in Cape Verde has turned into a nightmare for multiple British families after serious stomach illnesses claimed lives.
The family of 64-year-old Karen Pooley from Gloucestershire has shared their heartbreaking story, urging fellow travelers to think carefully before booking trips to the African island nation.
Karen fell seriously ill during a two-week vacation in October and tragically passed away despite emergency treatment.
Her older brother, Keith Pooley, told Sky News, “One death is one too many. If this continues, how many more will suffer?
I would urge anyone considering Cape Verde to research thoroughly and ensure they have proper travel insurance.”
Karen Pooley’s Final Days
Karen’s illness took a severe toll on her body.
She slipped in her hotel room, breaking her leg, and was rushed to a local clinic.
After four days of treatment, she was flown to Tenerife for more advanced care but sadly passed away the following day.
Her sister-in-law described her last days as “agonizing” and expressed the family’s anger and heartbreak: “We are heartbroken. I want to make sure this doesn’t happen to anyone else.”
Other British Victims Highlight Growing Concern
Law firm Irwin Mitchell reports that Karen is one of six British tourists who have died from severe gastric illnesses in Cape Verde since January 2023. The other victims include:
- Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham, who fell ill at the Riu Cabo Verde resort in August 2025 and died after a botched surgery when local doctors misdiagnosed her condition.
- Mark Ashley, 55, from Bedfordshire, who became violently ill just three days into his October 2025 holiday at Riu Palace Santa Maria in Sal. Despite reporting his illness through the tour operator TUI, he collapsed at home weeks later and died shortly after.
- A 56-year-old man and a man in his 60s from Watford, who also succumbed to similar illnesses after visiting Cape Verde.
- Jane Pressley, 62, from Gainsborough, who fell ill during a November 2022 trip and died less than two weeks after returning home.
These cases highlight a worrying trend, with families reporting serious hygiene issues at hotels and resorts across the islands.
Families Speak Out About Tragic Experiences
The loss of loved ones has left families in shock.
Emma Ashley, whose husband Mark died, said, “We went expecting a relaxing holiday, but he became violently ill and never recovered.”
Similarly, Patrick Walsh recounted the harrowing experience of watching his wife Elena endure unbearable pain during a failed operation that claimed her life.
Keith Pooley and other families are now speaking out not only to warn travelers but also to demand accountability from tour operators and local authorities.
Legal Action and Investigation Underway
Irwin Mitchell is representing over 1,700 British holidaymakers who suffered gastric illnesses in Cape Verde since 2022.
The law firm emphasizes that the deaths put “into sharp focus” the ongoing issues with hygiene standards at these resorts.
Jatinder Paul, an expert international injury lawyer, stated:
“Nothing brings the gravity of this situation into sharper focus than these recent deaths.
Each case isn’t just a statistic—it’s a human story.
Tourists continue to describe hygiene concerns year after year, and meaningful action is urgently needed.”
The first High Court hearing for claims related to these illnesses is scheduled this week, with several other group actions expected in the coming months.
TUI, the tour operator involved, has denied liability.
Urgent Call for Safer Holidays
Families and legal representatives are calling for stricter hygiene controls and safety measures in Cape Verde resorts.
They stress that tour operators have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of travelers, especially when booking all-inclusive packages.
Until decisive action is taken, these families hope their loved ones’ deaths will serve as a warning and prevent further tragedies.
