Withholding funds

I am extremely disappointed with my experience with ZARbet. I deposited my own money into my *** account and received a bonus. I understand that bonuses can have wagering requirements. However, I specifically asked ZARbet to cancel/forfeit the bonus and return my original deposited funds. I am not asking to withdraw bonus funds or bonus winnings. Instead, ZARbet is refusing to process my withdrawal and is telling me that I must complete approximately R3,000 in wagering before I can access the money. I have repeatedly asked them to explain exactly why my own deposited funds cannot be withdrawn if I am willing to forfeit the bonus completely. Their response has been to refer me to clauses 11.11.7 and 11.11.9. I have asked them to explain specifically how those clauses prevent me from withdrawing my original deposit, but I have not received a satisfactory explanation. This is extremely concerning to me. A bonus should not leave a customer feeling that their own deposited money is being held hostage by a wagering requirement. I have now escalated the matter to the Western Cape Gambling & Racing Board for investigation and clarification. My advice to other players: read the bonus terms very carefully before accepting any bonus, particularly if you may want to withdraw your deposited funds. I hope ZARbet will reconsider its position and resolve this matter fairly.