Is it permissible for a security officer to hit a thief or verbally abuse him, and what are the alternative disciplinary procedures?

The security officer at the scene of the theft must document the incident and hand over the thief to the police or the shop owner. He is not permitted to punish the thief, either verbally or physically. It is commendable for the owner of the stolen property to conceal the thief's act and forgive him, unless doing so would lead to a greater harm. If the owner wishes to punish the thief, he should refer the matter to the authorities.