Takealot rejects return of defective gym equipment

On 02/11/2023 and 08/11/2023 respectively, I took delivery of a new Gorilla Sports SA Dumbbell 30 kg Set (Vinyl) and Gorilla Sports SA EZ Curl Bar purchased via Takealot.

After brief use, the weight plates began to leak sand. Noticing this, I logged a return of all the equipment for a refund as it is now unusable. Takealot has chosen to reject my returns stating that I should have filed a return within 30 days of delivery. Yet, the weight plates were not leaking then (they have a 6-month warranty).

The two return codes on Takealot are: 1. MRRN-UD9JE-JX6A (Gorilla Sports SA - EZ Curl Bar) and 2. MRRN-UNEKR-KWGJ (Gorilla Sports SA - Dumbbell 30 kg Set)

Please assist me in resolving these two returns (refunds)? If I cannot get recourse, I will have no choice but to escalate to the Consumer Goods & Services Ombud as I will not accept them sending leaking dumbbells and an unusable 31mm curl bar (I have already purchased alternative equipment from another manufacturer).