Australian mining company Patriot Resources said that it had started drilling activities at its Copper Top Hill prospect, about 850 m northeast of the Sugarloaf copper deposit in Zambia’s Central Copperbelt.
Following geological mapping and surface sampling, which confirmed visible copper mineralisation along strike of more than 800 m, Patriot recently announced a new copper discovery within the Sugarloaf licence, now named the Copper Top Hill prospect.
Assays from rock chip samples returned grades of up to 3.12% copper using a portable XRF analyser.
The company has planned a 3 000 m drilling campaign to assess the depth extent, continuity, and structural controls of the mineralised zone. The programme will also evaluate the potential geological connection between Copper Top Hill and the Sugarloaf system.
“The commencement of drilling at the Copper Top Hill prospect is a significant milestone for Patriot,” said executive chairperson Hugh Warner.
“The grades and lateral extent of surface mineralisation are highly encouraging, and this drill programme will provide our first insights into the subsurface geometry and scale of this copper system. With access to established infrastructure and strong in-country support, we are well- positioned to rapidly advance our Zambian portfolio.”