Aisha Huang, also known as En Huang, has been handed a sentence of four years and six months in prison and a GH¢48,000 fine by the Accra High Court.
She was found guilty of mining without a license, aiding others in illegal mining, illegally employing foreigners, and trespassing into Ghana, despite being prohibited from doing so.
Despite her denial of the charges, the court pinpointed inconsistencies in her defence throughout the year-long trial.
En Huang was accused of involvement in illegal mining activities, leading to her deportation in 2018.
However, she allegedly returned to Ghana to continue illegal mining, prompting the Attorney-General to pursue legal action for previous and new infractions.
She pleaded guilty to unauthorized re-entry into Ghana, among other charges.
At the Accra High Court today, her counsel, Miracle Attachey, advocated for a fine and deportation, citing his client’s custody since October 22 and expressing concerns about the financial burden that a custodial sentence would place on the state, especially the prison service.
However, the court dismissed the plea, highlighting the adverse impact on affected communities and livelihoods.
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Source: Angelina Riley Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
