Have just experienced the same problem.I took my 2009 Octavia VRS to a dealer for attention after the exhaust control system warning light came on.
When the technician tried to open the bonnet the release handle came away in his hand and even refitting it wasn't any use as the mechanism was tight and wouldn't release.I have had to leave the car with them to sort out as they tell me they will have to access the mechanism from underneath the car by removing the fans.They say it will take three hours!They tell me that they have dealt with two of these before.Thankfully it is being done under warranty.
