The Perth-based junior today said that operator CNPC International Mauritania (CNPCIM) was drilling ahead at a depth of 2423m in 12¼-inch hole.

Baraka last week said the well had encountered fluorescence over a gross interval from 1811-1875m and gas shows over a gross interval from 1857-1875m in interbedded sandstones and shales.

It today said Heron-1 had encountered additional fluorescence and gas shows in limestones at depths of 2100-2101m and 2155-2157m. It is currently drilling in sandstone and shales.

The next major objective is at about 360m in Aptian sandstones and limestone.

It is expected to take about three months to drill Heron-1 to a total planned depth of 3800m.

The land-based drilling campaign is the first in the country in recent years.

Following Heron-1, CNPCIM will use the rig to drill an exploration well in neighbouring Coastal Block 12, in which Baraka does not have an interest.

Interests in Heron are CNPC (65%) and Baraka (35%).