Precision geophysics to zero-in on drill targets

Botswana Diamonds PLC

("Botswana Diamonds" or the "Company")

Precision geophysics to zero-in on priority drilling targets

Botswana Diamonds ('BOD'), the AIM and BSE listed diamond explorer, is pleased to announce that it has commenced a precision ground geophysics programme to zero-in on potential kimberlite pipes on the prospective Marsfontein and Thorny River properties.

The company is focusing on four high-potential targets to finalise early drilling:

1.   The largest and most prospective of the anomalies generated by UK group Subterrane's recent detailed assessment.  Geophysics will confirm potential targets for November drilling.

2.   An assessment by Canadian group Terramodelling Services identified a further anomaly where geophysics will also confirm a target for November drilling.

3.   New Marsfontein anomalies (M9 and M17) which were identified by reviewing historic data.  Our own detailed geophysical survey is required to accurately geo-reference the targets for drilling in November.

4.   Two thick intersections on Frischgewaagt suggest multiple kimberlite 'blows'.

The company is also undertaking a detailed ground geophysical survey over the Marsfontein alluvial deposit, following an independent assessment of the potential for diamondiferous alluvial deposits by Professor Tania Marshall, the current Chairperson of the SamCode Standards Committee and a recognised expert in the geology and assessment of diamondiferous alluvial deposits.

A combination of ground gravity, electromagnetic ('EM') and magnetic surveys will be undertaken by Geofocus, a leading geophysical consultancy led by Bjorn Harvemann, previously Head of Exploration Geophysics at De Beers.  EM and magnetics have previously been used to delineate kimberlite dykes, which were later confirmed by drilling.  The detailed ground gravity survey specifically focuses on delineating kimberlite pipes.

Following the geophysical survey, which should take 6 weeks, a drilling campaign is planned in November to confirm the new kimberlite targets.

This release has been approved by James Campbell, Managing Director of Botswana Diamonds plc, a qualified geologist (Pr.Sci.Nat), a Member of the Geological Society of South Africa, a Fellow of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Metals and Mining (UK) and with over 35-years' experience in the diamond sector. 

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) 596/2014. The person who arranged for the release of this announcement on behalf of the Company was James Campbell, Director

A copy of this announcement is available on the Company's website, at www.botswanadiamonds.co.uk

ENDS

Enquiries:

www.botswanadiamonds.co.uk