Melbana Energy Limited provided this update on activities in its Block 9 contract area, onshore Cuba (Melbana's working interest 30%). Drilling operations have continued since last update, with the Zapato-1 exploration well now having reached a depth of 1,666 metres in 12-1/4" diameter hole. The expected ophiolitic formation has been encountered higher than prognosis.

Given the low rate of penetration, the 12-1/4" x 14" underreamer was removed from the bottom hole assembly (BHA) when the 14" diameter hole had reached 1,251 metres. Drilling was then continued with stabilized 12-1/4" BHA to the current depth and wiper trips were made to clean and condition the hole prior to the running and setting of the 11-3/4" liner within the 14" hole section to secure this open hole. At the present time, the 11-3/4" liner has been run to 1,240 metres and, once set and cemented in place, the plan is to drill-out the shoe and continue drilling in the ophiolitic formation from 1,666m with a 10-5/8" BHA.