Takealot sell damaged goods

Purchased a Vortex 6 in one airfrier from Takealot. this item was purchased as a gift and was not opened until 8 days later. When given to the person on the 8th day it was discovered that the drawer handle was cracked and the stainless steel portion was dented. Logged a return request on the 9th day and they collected the Airfrier. On receiving the item they rejected the return stating that I had returned the item to late and that the return for damaged items was to be within 7 days. The unit was not switched on and returned without being used. Why did they approve and collect the item knowing that they would reject the claim. A week later they returned the damaged Airfrier with no correspondence. Takealot sell damaged goods, make sure to open any item received from them on the day that you receive it