Miss Universe in crisis: Co-owner accused of ties to criminal network

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.