Aruma Completes Initial Drilling Phase at Tillex, Eyes Expanded Copper Resource

Phase 1 Drilling Delivers Structural and Geophysical Insights

Aruma Resources (ASX:AAJ) has successfully completed the first phase of diamond drilling at its Tillex Copper-Silver Project, nestled in Ontario’s prolific Timmins mining district. The five-hole campaign amassed 1,093 metres of core, with depths ranging from 90 to 423 metres, marking a crucial step in expanding the known high-grade copper mineralisation along strike and at depth.

The program was designed to gather detailed geological data, including oriented core for structural measurements, and to collect metallurgical samples ahead of a more aggressive drilling effort. Complementing the drilling, downhole electromagnetic (EM) surveys were conducted on four holes, including two historical ones, to pinpoint conductors at depth and sharpen drill targeting for the upcoming Phase 2 campaign. These EM results are due in early June, promising to add clarity on deeper mineralisation that extends beyond the current ~400m depth extent.

These developments build on the company’s previous work, including an earlier EM survey extensions that expanded the mineralised strike length to approximately 600 metres. The Phase 1 drilling also aligns with the maiden campaign launched in April 2026, which aimed to test extensions along strike and to 350 metres depth, with initial assays anticipated around this time diamond drilling launch.

Setting the Stage for a Larger Phase 2 Campaign

With Phase 1 objectives met, including successful structural logging, metallurgical sampling, and geophysical surveying, Aruma is preparing for a substantial follow-up drilling program. The planned Phase 2 will involve 3,500 to 4,000 metres of diamond drilling, designed to rigorously test the full strike and depth potential of the Tillex Deposit. This expanded effort aims to underpin a Mineral Resource estimate, a key milestone for advancing the project towards development.

Managing Director Grant Ferguson emphasised the significance of the initial phase, noting that the data collected de-risks the forthcoming campaign and enhances geological understanding. The company’s longer-term ambition remains to deliver a significant copper resource in one of Canada’s most renowned mining districts.

Historic Drilling Highlights High-Grade Potential

Tillex’s appeal is supported by a rich history of wide, high-grade copper and silver intersections, with previous drilling revealing intervals such as 110 metres at 1.69% copper and 7.05 grams per tonne silver, including narrower zones exceeding 2.5% copper and double-digit silver grades. These results underscore the deposit’s robust mineralisation and provide a compelling backdrop for Aruma’s ongoing exploration.

The project’s interpreted mineralised footprint currently spans around 600 metres along strike and extends to at least 400 metres in depth. The integration of new structural data, geophysical surveys, and metallurgical sampling from Phase 1 will be critical in refining the geological model and guiding the next drilling phase.

Exploration Momentum in Timmins District

Aruma’s progress at Tillex is part of a broader push in the Timmins district, a world-class mining jurisdiction known for prolific copper and precious metals deposits. The company’s methodical approach, combining geophysics with targeted drilling, reflects a strategy to unlock value in a competitive landscape. Meanwhile, Aruma’s exploration activities at other projects, such as Wilan and Saltwater, continue to confirm promising mineral assemblages, adding to the company’s portfolio potential.