Electric Tailgate malfunction on VW T5 camper van

I have a 2006 VW camper based on the T5 Caravelle.  The rear tailgate has an electric closing mechanism.  It started to malfunction on Saturday by moving the latch on the body in and out once the tailgate was opened, powered by the electric closer.   Today the latch has moved into the closed position and the door will not shut or lock.    Any help to resolve this would be appreciated.