Panthera Resources PLC to fast-track exploration at Bassala project after

() said it had fast-tracked the next phase of exploration at its Bassala gold project in Mali after positive results from a completed soil sampling programme. 

The next stage, which will see an induced polarisation (IP) survey undertaken, will start this week.

Some 1,200 soil samples were obtained and the findings of the successful programme confirm that two major gold anomalous trends are present.

The zones appear to be continuations of regional mineralisation trends, the company noted.

First detailed sample results are expected in April.

“The excellent soil sampling results, almost within sight of the headframe of two-plus 2Moz gold mines, is encouraging,” said Mark Bolton, managing director.

“The fact that previous very broad spaced shallow RAB (Rotary Air Blast) drilling has confirmed significant gold mineralisation beneath the soil anomalism significantly adds to the emerging picture of a potentially substantial gold system.

“The success of the recent IP survey at our Kalaka project has resulted in the geophysical crew being re-located to this project in order to firm up drill targets for testing. 

“Results from the IP survey are eagerly awaited, and preliminary planning has commenced securing a suitable drill rig to test the better targets at Bassala.”