Teen dies after allegedly being locked inside Shoprite cold room for stealing chocolate

WITHOUT divulging any details regarding the allegations over the death of a Gauteng teenager, retailer Shoprite stated that they would co-operate with the South African Police Service.

It is alleged that a 13-year-old boy was accused of stealing a bar of chocolate from a Shoprite store in Ratanda in Heidelberg.

It is further alleged that the store manager locked the teenager in a store cold room. It is understood the boy died overnight.

When approached for comment, the supermarket chain extended 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 South African Police Service (SAPS) should be contacted for more information.

“We always give our full co-operation and provide all available information to the SAPS to assist their investigation,” the supermarket chain stated.

On Monday, angry community members gathered outside the store demanding answers.

The SAPS have been approached for comment.