The Total-operated Saphir-1XB exploration well on block CI-514 has proved the presence of liquid hydrocarbons in the deep offshore west of Ivory Coast

The Total-operated Saphir-1XB exploration well on block CI-514 has proved the presence of liquid hydrocarbons in the deep offshore west of Ivory Coast. According to Marc Blaizot, Senior Vice President, Exploration, the well was drilled in an abrupt margin play and is the first discovery in the San Pedro Basin, a frontier exploration area. Lying in 2,300 metres of water, Saphir-1XB is the first well in block CI-514. It was drilled to a total depth of 4,655 metres, encountering around 40 metres of net pay containing light 34° API oil. Total is now to focus attending on the find’s extension to the north and east, planning to drill two wells in blocks CI-515 and CI-516 by year-end.

 

Total E&P Côte d’Ivoire operates block CI-514 with a 54% interest, alongside CNR International (36%) and Petroci Holding (10%).