Takealot - Credit request rejected due to reason provided

24 Nov I purchased the Campground 2L coffee percolator from Takealot Online.
30Nov - I logged the return, "I have changed my mind" about this product.
1Dec - Takealot collected the unit.
4Dec - I notice on Return record shows the return was declined.
4Dec - Return Tracking shows MRRN-P7G64YXK5 11:38 "return declined after product evaluation. Return concluded"

5Dec - I received an email Dec 5, 2023, 21:23 stating: "Thank you for your patience while we evaluated your return request. Unfortunately, your return has been declined due to specific criteria not being met in line with our Returns Policy. Submitted Return Reason: Product does not meet my expectations. In this case, the product returned was used."
6Dec - I replied by email that the product does not suit my requirements, it was not used and it was returned in its original status as received. I also noted in my reply that "the picture - attachment" they included in the email rejecting my request to credit - Was not a picture taken by me, and that background is not @ my home.

6Dec - I wrote a product review providing reason why i returned the product and included comments that i am awaiting their feedback.

To date, 7 Dec 2023 I have had no reply from Takealot because according to their Return Track record it shows MRRN-P7G64YXK5 11:38 "return declined after product evaluation. Return concluded"
I am not happy with their response insinuating that I have lied about the reason for return by stating: "In this case, the product returned was used" also making an investigative response that I used the product!

They need to respond timeously & acknowledge the error made with the evaluation and to proceed to credit me. I have been a long-standing customer and this is making me change my mind to purchase from them in the future.

Regards,
SB