The absence of independent proof it is gold, is in itself proof that it is not.
Also consider the claims and permits, would they have been so easily obtainable, sold prior to expiration if there really was gold? That could be plausible if Khoo had some industry leading methods of mining for gold, however I doubt digging by hand and panning to be cutting edge technology.
Perhaps a 'mining company' born from a cigar company provides some sort of intangible asset, who knows lol.