INTERNATIONAL ROAMING SERVICE A DISASTER

It seems to be Impossible to deactivate my sms roaming (that was not even correctly activated in the first place). MTN offers an USSD code (*135#) where I am supposedly able to activate / deactivate my international roaming. However, this seems to be a myth. I tried to activate, and had to call before I left the country for a 2 weeks trip. On my return, the USSR code still did not work ... I called the service centre (083135) and they could no deactivate me (said it will only materialize in 2 hours. 6 hours later, I send an email to enquire the reason for the services not being restored. Received a reference number that it would happen within 24 hours latest. It is now more than 24 hours ... I since called their service centre again (083135) but they STILL cannot assist. The matter is now seemingly 'escalated' but heaven alone knows how long that will take. Why advertise a service that is not working through the USSD/website/MTNapp/service centre? To be disconnected from the world over New Years is not on!!