Chinese national En Huang, commonly known as Aisha Huang and nicknamed the ‘galamsey queen,’ has denied any involvement in mining activities in Ghana.
During her criminal trial, she stated in her witness statement that she has never engaged in mining activities and does not possess a mining license.
Initially, Aisha Huang denied the charges after being deported in 2018. However, on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, she changed her plea to guilty.
Specifically, she pleaded guilty to entering Ghana while prohibited from re-entry, which goes against section 20(4) of the Immigration Act, 2000, Act 573.
Aisha Huang was arrested in Kumasi after it was discovered that she had re-entered Ghana despite being barred from the country. She faced charges related to undertaking mining operations without a license, facilitating the participation of individuals involved in mining operations, and the illegal employment of foreigners.
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After the prosecution called 11 witnesses, they closed their case. The court then ordered the defense lawyers to submit their “no case” submission by May 16, 2023, and serve it on the prosecution.
Aisha Huang argued that the evidence presented by the prosecution is false.
In March of this year, Huang Lei, Aisha Huang’s son, was convicted after pleading guilty to charges against him. He was charged with remaining in Ghana after the expiration of his passport and possessing 250 rounds of ammunition without authorization.
Initially, Huang Lei pleaded not guilty to all charges and was remanded in prison custody due to concerns of him being a flight risk. However, he eventually changed his plea and was convicted, receiving a fine of GH¢10,800.
