Takealot - Defective frying pan rejection

I bought a frying pan delivered to me on the 1st July 2022.

The item is working but the element has been overheating and was only to be used on the heating function 2 and below. 2 weeks ago the element overheated and melted the input below the frying pan next to the element cover and it scorched my kitchen counter not to mention the coating has been peeling rapidly after every wash with a sponge. I submitted the complaint to Takealot who rejected my item after assesment by the warehouse and concluded the item as wear and tear.

I am extremely unhappy with this factor because the warranty for defective items is 6 months. Even though the item is working it poses a significant risk that it could ignite a fire in my kitchen posing a risk to me and my family. And I would like to also indicate that this item is less than 6 months old? As a consumer I have the right to be assisted if an item of poor quality is sold to me!

I am requesting a refund or exchange of the item because the item bought is not of quality, hence the issues I have had in 6 months.
I have attached a photo of my scorched kitchen counter for perusal...