sorry, i dont think you have much of a case, but i can atleast offer sympathy.
i can easily guess at the carrier
. as a self branded "seasoned" traveler i took a calculated risk around a 'gray' space and got into not-too-dissimilar problems with this carrier.
really the only incident of this type ive incurred.... without positive resolution.... in my frequent flying.
fortunately the consequences were much less severe - i booked an overnight train out. but i fully understand the behavior/manner/and motivation of the people associated with that location and situation: not at all helpful.
anyway, live and learn