10+ years and number deactivated - seriously!!!

Aijai...after 10+ years Ive lost my number...after investigating I saw that a new regulation was approved where you need to spend money on your sim in order to keep your number activated...how is this even legal - Ive paid for my number many many year ago. All my confirmations, OTPs etc is linked to my number. Ive been using my number for so many years and people called, SMSed etc. This number is also active with all online platforms...how am I 'not active'?!!!

I went to the MTN Walmer Park branch to query and they also seemed 'unsure' about the process. I asked can we reactivate the number as EVERYTHING is linked to this number and nothing - after spending an hour with the consultant and her being on the phone with how many people - still no activation!

Now Ive heard this is applicable to all service providers - wow - money making scheme if you ask me.

Thank you for nothing MTN - you surely should allow re activation!!!