Miss Universe Mexico Co-Owner Investigated for Alleged Drug Trafficking Links
The investigation into Raúl Rocha Cantú, a prominent figure associated with the Miss Universe pageant, is raising significant concerns in Mexico. The General Prosecutor’s Office of Mexico (FGR) is probing Rocha for alleged connections to organized crime, including drug trafficking and arms trafficking.
Details of the Investigation
On November 29, 2024, the FGR commenced its investigation following information provided by the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection. The probe impacts an unspecified number of individuals.
- Raúl Rocha Cantú is confirmed as one of the individuals under investigation.
- A federal judge has issued arrest warrants for 13 suspects, whose identities remain undisclosed.
- One federal official has already been apprehended as part of this ongoing inquiry.
The FGR is actively gathering evidence to clarify Rocha’s legal status. Reports suggest that the investigation has been prompted by various public claims regarding his involvement in illicit activities.
Public Outcry and Controversy
Shortly after Rocha’s connection to the investigation became public, a controversy erupted around the Miss Universe contest. Fátima Bosch, representing Mexico, was crowned the winner, leading to backlash from some judges.
- Judge Omar Harfouch resigned, alleging that Rocha pressured him into voting for Bosch for commercial benefits.
- Harfouch suggested Rocha had business ties to Bosch’s father, Bernardo Bosch Hernández, who works with Pemex.
Financial Ties to Pemex
Pemex acknowledged that, in 2023, it engaged with two companies linked to Rocha. However, it clarified that the ties had ended and specified that the official responsible did not oversee the contracts awarded.
In a response to the allegations, Rocha vehemently denied the claims against him, describing them as false and misleading. He emphasized that his contract with Pemex was won through a competitive bidding process involving 15 participants. He asserted that only a portion of the total contract value, approximately 44 million pesos (around $2.3 million), was executed.
Ownership of Miss Universe
Rocha revealed that his company acquired a 50% stake in the Miss Universe organization in January 2024, well after the contract with Pemex was established. He also claimed his interactions with the Bosch family began only in 2025.
The FGR has promised to release further information as pending arrest warrants are executed and hearings progress in federal courts. The situation continues to unfold, attracting keen media attention and public scrutiny.
