A 33-year-old man and his companion were confined in the back of a store on Sunday after security officers accused them of shoplifting.
Community Alleges Death Due to Cold Storage Confinement
Community members allege that the man died after being held overnight in a cold storage room. These claims have fueled public outrage and demand for accountability.
Ratanda
Who gives Security companies the right to fire rubber bullets at residents who want to know why a man died in a coldroom at @Shoprite_SA ?
BandileTshabalala died after he was locked in a cold room for about 11 hours. pic.twitter.com/KUw9SDD6uY
— 🍎 Jenna 🇿🇦 🇷🇺 🇵🇸 (@jenna_original) May 20, 2024
Police Investigate Assault and Inquest Docket
Police spokesperson Noxolo Kweza stated that authorities are investigating both a case of assault and an inquest docket. She explained:
“This follows an alleged incident in which two men accused of shoplifting were locked in the back of the store.
“One of the men, a 33-year-old, during closing time complained of stomach aches, paramedics were called, and he was declared dead on the scene.”
Community Protests and Police Response
On Monday, private security personnel used rubber bullets to disperse angry community members who had damaged the store’s entrance and a vehicle. Tensions remain high as the community seeks answers about the circumstances leading to the man’s death.
Clarification on the Victim’s Age and Ongoing Investigation
Despite initial confusion regarding the victim’s age, police have confirmed he was 33 years old. Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza confirmed that Ratanda police have initiated a case of assault common and an inquest docket. She emphasized the seriousness of the allegations:
“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 South African Police Service (SAPS) should be contacted for more information.
“We always give our full cooperation and provide all available information to the SAPS to assist their investigation.”
Community Demands Answers
On Monday, upset community members gathered outside the store, demanding explanations for the tragic incident. The investigation by the police continues, and the community awaits further details to understand how a shoplifting accusation ended in such a tragic loss of life.
🚨Read🚨
The Economic Freedom Fighters Gauteng Statement on the death of Mr Bandile Tshabalala at Ratanda Shoprite Store.
– the Shoprite store manager and everyone responsible must be charged with murder. Shoprite must compensate the family. pic.twitter.com/sKe1EwqvNM— EFF Gauteng (@EFFGautengProv) May 20, 2024
