Vala

They launched an operation called Vala Umgodi, or seal the hole, in December 2023, promising to take a tough stance on the gangs.

While Vala Umgodi was largely successful in other provinces, the old Buffelsfontein gold mine presented a unique challenge.

This is part of the Vala Umgodi, or "Close the Hole", operation to curb illegal mining.

“These are the people who died fighting against the junta,” says Vala as he straightens a bouquet that’s fallen over near the grave of his brother-in-law.

Opener and captain Assad Vala added 21, with Sese Bao then adding 50 off 43 balls before being bowled by Alzarri Joseph to leave PNG 98-6.