Oriole Resources PLC (AIM:ORR) told investors that it has begun a 2,950-metre maiden drilling programme at the MB01-N target, within its Mbe gold project in Cameroon.
The work follows the recently announced maiden JORC resource at the nearby MB01-S deposit.
The programme consists of thirteen holes and is aimed at converting the current exploration target of between 15.00 million tonnes and 20.00 million tonnes at 0.77 to 0.94 grams per tonne into a resource.
“We are delighted that soon after announcing the tremendous maiden MRE at MB01-S, we have swiftly started the maiden drilling programme at the nearby MB01-N prospect," said chief executive Martin Rosser.
He added: “With the precedent of the JORC Exploration Target conversion success rate at MB01-S, the potential for a similar achievement at MB01-N and the reporting of drilling results are eagerly anticipated."
The campaign is fully funded through an agreement with BCM International, which will acquire a 50% interest in the Mbe licence upon completion.
Drilling is expected to finish in late Q1 2026.