Botswana Diamonds plc has announced the first results of its joint venture exploration programme on PL117/2011 in the Orapa region of Botswana. The joint venture company, Sunland Minerals, is owned 50/50 between Botswana Diamonds and Alrosa.

First phase of analysis by Alrosa, on behalf of Sunland Minerals, of data collected on PL117 in Orapa completed.

Targets identified

Two specific targets AN117/1 and AN117/2 have been identified in the northern part of the block. The Alrosa technology identifies these targets as having high potential to be new kimberlite discoveries. AN117/2 which has been identified using geophysical data is scheduled to be drilled in September of this year. AN117/1 identified by mineralogical analysis will be further defined by a 300x300m Transient Electromagnetic Method (TEM) survey, with a view that it will be progressed towards drilling.

Three further anomalies AN1, AN2 and AN4 need further work to define drill targets.

The new targets are different from the already known AK10 kimberlite in that they do not have a wide near surface expression as the kimberlites may not have blown their way to surface through the overlaying rocks. John Teeling, Chairman, said they have identified a number of new targets on PL117 which are in an area known to be prospective for diamond bearing kimberlites.

“One, AN117/2 will be drilled in September this year while at the same time further work will be undertaken to identify the exact drill site for AN117/1. Three further anomalies have been identified which are highly promising and will be defined in the coming months,” he said.

“This is what we hoped from the collaboration with Alrosa. New eyes, new ideas and new techniques bringing a fresh approach to exploring the best diamond region in the world.”