Phone ****** from store -not taking responsibility

Took my iPhone 6 (128GB) to Autopage in Gateway, Umhlanga to replace a cracked front glass. The sales person took the phone in & removed the glass. After she removed the glass, she then advised me she did not have stock of the item (she should have checked stock first). Whilst the phone was still in her possession, I briefly left the store to chat to a friend outside. <br> <br> Whilst exiting the store she mentioned that I should take the phone before leaving (to chat to my friend). This was not acceptable to me as the transaction was not concluded & the phone was not in a state for me to take possession of. Despite me asking her to keep the phone aside (securely), I returned about 15 minutes later to be informed that the phone was ******.<br> <br> I was advised that the store cameras were not working and the management of the store has refused to accept liability or compensate me for my loss.<br> <br> I then contacted Altech Customer Services and after various communications I was told that since this is a franchise Altech Head Office cannot assist me and I should take up the issue directly with the store. This is not only passing the buck but unprofessional for a franchisor to not assist. NOT ACCEPTABLE