Raúl Rocha, president and part-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, is reportedly facing serious criminal allegations in Mexico.
According to the Mexican newspaper Reforma, prosecutors suspect Rocha of involvement in a criminal network trafficking drugs, weapons, and stolen fuel along the Guatemala–Mexico border. Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office claims Rocha held a leadership role in the group, which allegedly transported fuel across the Usumacinta River and then by truck into central Mexico, including the state of Querétaro.
Investigators also allege the same network handled narcotics and firearms. Several of Rocha’s properties were raided, and financial records reportedly found during the searches suggested he contributed funds to the organization. One document reportedly showed a payment of approximately 2.1 million Mexican pesos. Based on this evidence, prosecutors requested an arrest warrant in August.
Authorities claim the criminal network had connections with officials at various levels of government, providing protection and allowing contraband, including fuel, to move more freely. Rocha reportedly approached prosecutors in October with a plea deal, offering information in exchange for immunity, but it is unclear whether negotiations are ongoing. Rocha denies all allegations.
A Tumultuous Year for Miss Universe
The accusations come amid a turbulent season for the Miss Universe pageant. On November 21, 25-year-old Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch was crowned winner, but the lead-up to the competition was marred by contestant walkouts, judge resignations, and claims of unfair scoring.
On November 4, Miss Universe CEO Nawat Itsaragrisil was dismissed after a conflict with Bosch, which prompted several contestants to leave a pre-pageant event in protest. Judge Omar Harfouch resigned just days before the official final in Bangkok, claiming that the Top 30 finalists had been decided long before judges cast their votes.
The pageant also faced scrutiny following a fall by Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry on November 19. While Rocha stated that Henry was “in good health” and “nearing discharge,” fellow contestant Miss Haiti Melissa Sapini alleged that the pageant leadership blamed Henry for the incident.
Follow NEWS.am STYLE on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
22:22, September 23
Obama, Butler and Momoa Hit the “Sweet Spot”: Scientists Reveal the Most Attractive Male Voice21:19, September 23
Grandma’s Perfume Is Back in Style: 10 Iconic Fragrances Taking Over Fall 202620:30, September 23
From “Ugly” Prints to Mini Pockets: Prada Turns the Skirt Into Fashion’s Ultimate Object of Desire19:21, September 23

16:20, September 23
Tech Millionaires Are Building a City of the Future in Uruguay: AI, Neo-Gothic Architecture and $1 Billion for a New Utopia15:41, September 23
The Return of a Legend: Romance, Energy and Declarations of Love at Garou’s Concert in Yerevan15:17, September 23
“Stunning,” “Unpleasant” and “Bold”: Early Reviews of Tom Cruise’s New Film Divide Critics14:38, September 23
Dolph Lundgren Reveals He Considered Suicide During His Cancer Treatment14:19, September 23
Irina Shayk Gives Aryna Sabalenka a Runway-Walking Masterclass in Milan13:16, September 23
Stars Take Over Milan: Cardi B, Jennifer Lopez and Alicia Keys Hit the Vogue World Runway12:31, September 23
Christina Aguilera Puts on a Steamy Yacht Show as Her Fiancé Spins Her Around in Portofino12:13, September 23
“We Fart — It’s Natural”: Benny Blanco Makes a Shocking Confession About Married Life