Shoprite is facing significant public backlash following the tragic death of 33-year-old Bandile Shabalala, who allegedly died in a Shoprite cold storage room in Heidelberg, Gauteng.
Shoprite ‘probes’ Bandile Shabalala death
Shabalala was reportedly locked in the refrigerator after being accused of stealing a chocolate.
In response to the incident, Shoprite Holdings issued a statement expressing condolences to the Shabalala family and indicating that they are awaiting the outcome of a police investigation before taking further action.
The statement from Shoprite reads:
“The supermarket chain extends its condolences to the family following their loss. The allegations are seen in an extremely serious light and the necessary steps will be taken pending the outcome of a full investigation. We cannot comment on the details of the incident as it is a police matter, and the local SAPS should be contacted for more information. We always give our full cooperation and provide all available information to the SAPS to assist their investigations.”
What we know about the incident
The incident has sparked outrage among Heidelberg residents, who’ve gathered outside the Shoprite store in Ratanda Mall, since Monday, demanding accountability for Shabalala’s death.
Residents have vowed to keep the store closed until those responsible are brought to justice.
According to reports, the tragic event unfolded on a Sunday morning when two men were apprehended by store security on suspicion of shoplifting.
They were taken to a holding facility at the back of the store, awaiting the arrival of the police.
It was reported that around 16:00, one of the men, Shabalala, complained of stomach pains and requested to use the toilet.
Paramedics were called and arrived at the store at 20:58, but Shabalala was declared dead at the scene.
The police were notified and arrived at 21:10 to investigate.
Ratanda SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Moss Maluleke confirmed Shabalala’s death and his age, stating that an investigation is ongoing.
The circumstances surrounding his death, including the alleged confinement in the cold storage room, are being thoroughly examined by the authorities.