Miss Universe president Raul Rocha faces trafficking allegations in Mexico

Miss Universe Organization president Raul Rocha is once again at the center of a firestorm — this time far beyond pageant controversy. According to a report by People Magazine, citing Mexican newspaper Reforma, Rocha is allegedly facing serious criminal charges involving drugs, arms, and fuel trafficking across Guatemala and Mexico.

Reforma reportedly details that Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office (FRG) considers Rocha an alleged leader of a criminal group that smuggles fuel via boats along the Usumacinta River and transports it to Querétaro by truck. Beyond fuel, the organization is also said to be involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking.

According to the report, Yazmín Mayoral Marín of Mexico’s Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Organized Crime requested an arrest warrant for Rocha on 6 August. The charges — rooted in allegations of drug and firearm trafficking — stem from his supposed leadership role in the operation. FRG raids allegedly uncovered financial records showing Rocha’s monetary contributions to the group, including one transaction reportedly worth 2.1 million Mexican pesos.

Reforma is said to have obtained the arrest warrant, which claims the alleged criminal network has “connections with politicians and authorities at all three levels of government to deliberately carry out their mission, which includes the sale of hydrocarbons, narcotics, and the trafficking and sale of large quantities of weapons of war.”

The report adds that Rocha approached authorities in October, seeking a plea bargain and offering information in exchange for immunity. As of now, he has not publicly addressed these latest allegations.

This development adds to an already tumultuous period for the Miss Universe Organization. The 74th edition of the pageant was marred by walkouts during pre-coronation activities, uproar over the results, the resignation of the crowned winner, and widespread accusations of rigging. Through the chaos, the Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo maintained poise and brilliance, ultimately securing the 3rd Runner-Up placement.

Rocha had earlier spoken about the controversies and even admitted he was “fed up” with the pageant, hinting at the possibility of selling it.

Meanwhile, Mexico’s Fatima Bosch — who emerged victorious among 120 candidates — took to Instagram Stories to address the “unjust hate” she has been receiving following her win, calling for fairness and compassion amid the online backlash.

As investigations deepen and tensions continue to surround the Miss Universe brand, the organization now faces yet another wave of scrutiny — one that reaches far beyond the runway.