Duracell batteries leaked in 2 quality LED torches

Two years ago I purchased a high quality LED LENSER T7.2 torch from Cape Union Mart and it was supp**** with AAA Duracell batteries. I used these Duracell batteries as supp**** with the torch for a year as it is a very efficient LED. I then replaced the flat Duracells with precisely the same off the shelf AAA Duracell batteries as I believe them to be the recommended batteries to use with LED LENSER torches. Well, after several months these Duracell's leaked inside my torch, and corroded the contacts and destroyed the circuitry so that the torch does not switch off anymore. I approached P&G as they own the Duracell brand, and Duracells come with a replacement guarantee that states should their batteries damage any appliance they are used in, it will be replaced. After several weeks of back & forth, I was finally informed that my expensive torch which was broken by the leaking Duracells, would not be replaced as the batteries were in the device for more than 6 months. I tried to explain that this is a highly sophisticated torch, which is very efficient & powerful, and batteries could easily last more than 6 months in the device. They still refuse to honour their guarantee.