My account is Blocked

My ABSA account had been blocked because my student permit expired on the 31st December 2018. At the bank I was told there is nothing to be done and only way out is to close the account. I give them a letter that I no longer stay in South Africa and about to finish my PhD hence registered part time but insisted there is nothing the bank can do for me to access my money as I have to bring a study permit. I am stranded in South Africa, I did not receive any notification on my account being blocked..Very frustrating.