Four British tourists have tragically passed away in Cape Verde due to an illness, with six fatalities reported since 2023. Elena Walsh, Karen Pooley, Mark Ashley, and an unnamed man lost their lives after contracting severe gastric illnesses during their visits to the African islands.

Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, had booked a £5,000 holiday package with her family last August. Initially diagnosed with appendicitis, she later suffered heart failure and never recovered. Karen Pooley, Mark Ashley, and the unnamed victim also succumbed to similar conditions, including gastroenteritis and heart failure, while staying at a Riu hotel.

Representing the families of the deceased, lawyers from Irwin Mitchell revealed that these four individuals are among six Britons who have died following trips to Cape Verde since January 2023. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of these tragic deaths.

Mark Ashley fell ill within days of arriving in Cape Verde, experiencing symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and fever. Despite seeking medical attention upon returning to the UK, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to his untimely death. Similarly, Karen Pooley fell ill during her holiday and tragically passed away due to multi-organ failure and sepsis.

The families of the victims are pursuing personal injury claims against Tui, the tour operator responsible for organizing their trips. Jatinder Paul, a serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, expressed concern over the repeated outbreaks of illness at Cape Verde hotels and called for improved hygiene standards to prevent further tragedies.

Tui has been approached for comment regarding these distressing incidents.