Takealot selling blacklisted phones

I bought an S20 ultra in 2021 from takealot and paid R20000 in full to them. I received the phone and it worked perfectly to date (26/02/2024).

I recently tried to trade in the device as there was specials available to get a new device. I tried at vodacom and mtn.

The informed me the device was blacklisted. I called takealot and they said they use a third party. Do the sell electronics from reputable third parties? Are they aware they are selling ****** goods?

I am aware things depreciate over time. But to me to sit with an item of 0 value now because it's technically a ******/*****ulent device is pathetic.

My advice to anyone is not to buy any electronics from takealot as they take no accountability in such instances. You rather pay more elsewhere so you have peace of mind that you are not getting ****** merchandise.