Madonsela weighs in on Clicks 'chocolate shoplifting’ saga: Release the video for the public to judge

Former public protector Thuli Madonsela has called on Clicks to release video footage of an incident at one of its stores, amid reports a woman was arrested for allegedly “stealing a half-eaten chocolate”.

The health and beauty retailer refuted the claim, saying in a statement that the woman was “caught shoplifting multiple items”.

As social media users reacted to the claims, Madonsela said the matter did not “look or sound good” and urged Clicks to “release the store video for the public to be the judge”.

While some agreed with Madonsela's request, others told her to stay out of the matter and focus on other issues.

When approached for comment, Clicks Chief Store Operations Officer Sedick Arendse said: "Clicks does not have CCTV cameras in the Mafikeng Store.  All evidence in our possession has been provided to the police."

The North West woman said she was accused of theft while exiting the Mafikeng Crossing store on Wednesday, and pleaded for help on social media

“We spoke for so long that I offered to pay double for the chocolate. The security guard took me to the back of the store and beat me. I have bruises. I pleaded with them to check the cameras but they refused and continued to beat me.

“I am in a holding cell. Waiting with the diapers I bought for my three-month-old. Looking for advice or a lawyer to help me,” she alleged in a social media post.

One responder told the woman a senior advocate was on their way to the police station to assist.

Arendse said the woman was not beaten or assaulted by Clicks employees or security staff.

“The matter has been handed to the SAPS for further investigation and action,” said Arendse.

North West police said they would only comment once the woman had been charged.