On January 24 I effected a payment via telephone with Melita Cable's billing department.

On February 6 I received an sms from Melita Cable reminding me to settle my account so a few days later I phoned again explaining that I had effected a payment on January 24 but I was told that the payment did not go through. I effected another payment right then but when I checked my account by internet banking I realised that both my payments had actually gone through.

When I contacted Melita Cable again the lady from customer care insisted I send a copy of my statement to prove my point. This I was reluctant to do and insisted that my payment could easily be checked, however I got nowhere and hung up.

Two days later the same lady phoned me and confirmed that my first payment had actually been posted to another subscriber and so we agreed that my account should be credited back. After four days and still no sign of my refund I phoned again and another employee from customer care informed me that payment would go through within six to 10 days. I was now furious and insisted that the payment be made immediately.

To be misinformed by an incompetent Melita Cable employee seems ok but to be refunded for their mistake takes two weeks - or more as to date there is no sign of my refund. I suppose a little bit of saved or gained interest at the subscriber's expense is the order of the day at Melita Cable.

Customer care my foot.