During the afternoon of 25 October 2020 I purchased a number of items at a store, owned by Chinese nationals and situated in the suburb i reside in (therefore many of the residents of my neighborhood also shop there), I was accompanied by my 8 year old son.

After walking around for a few minutes, I noticed that, what I can only presume is a manager, and another Chinese member of staff where following me whilst talking loud enough to make the other shoppers turn and stare, and gesturing towards me. I shrugged off the strange behavior and continued to the till to pay for my items.

While I was waiting in line, I was watching the security personal at the exit check each shoppers till slip to the items in their packets, this I know is normal procedure due to shopping at this store a number of tomes.

After paying for my item, I proceeded to the exit with my till slip in my hand in preparation for the security to sign off on it. As I approached the door, there where 3 security personal as well as the 2 aforementioned Chinese members of staff standing by the exit. The security personal checked my till slip and immediately after doing so took my handbag, without saying anything, and proceeded to search it. I was ignored as I voiced my protest. The security personal found nothing in my bag, it was then shoved back at me and I was allowed to leave. This incident causes a great many of the other shoppers to watch and stare. I checked outside said shop and there are no notices indicating that searches might be performed.

My question is, do I have a case to sue for defamation?