MR PRICE HOME GIFT CARD SYNDICATE PROBLEM

I bought a gift card on Friday the 25th of March 2022 at the Kolonnade Retail Park. I wanted to use my gift card at Brooklyn mall on the 30th, I was informed that unfortunately, there is no funds on the card, and that a transaction went through on the 28th at Fourways. I then phoned the Kolonnade Retail Park branch and spoke to a Manager, she then informed me that they have a problem with syndicates cloning the gift cards and that the matter will be investigated. In the meantime, I will not be refunded by Mr Price until they get the money back!!! Mr does not inform their clients that there is a risk when you buy a gift card and at the end, we as clients pay for this syndicate problem. I do NOT feel that this is acceptable at all! They cant really help you. Its just, we are sorry and we hope that this matter will be resolved, in the meantime, we will not refund you. How is this not theft?