Unauthorised money deducted from account

On Sunday (23/10/2022), I placed an order at KFC and they did not receive the payment (amount of R121), nor is it reflecting in my account. The amount is reflecting as uncleared in my account.

The merchant requires me to submit my bank statement showing the amount being paid to them, however, the amount does not reflect on my bank statement as it is showing as “uncleared” on my banking app. According to ABSA customer care, the amount is with ABSA and not with the merchant and needs to be returned to my account but the department that deals with this, isn’t sorting out my issue.

I’ve been to countless departments and I’m at my wits ends. I’ve dealt with being constantly transferred between departments and people as well as the call either being put down in my face or rejected.

I’m utterly disgusted at their pathetic service!