The Miss Universe organization is facing a storm of controversy, with a shocking twist in the tale. But here's where it gets intriguing: the co-owner's bank accounts have been frozen amidst a criminal investigation in Mexico, according to a recent report.
Raul Rocha Cantu, one of the owners of the renowned beauty pageant, is under scrutiny for alleged involvement in organized crime. The Mexican authorities, specifically the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF), have taken action by freezing Cantu's bank accounts. This move is part of an investigation into serious allegations of drug trafficking, arms trafficking, and fuel smuggling.
The investigation, as reported by The Associated Press on December 6th, has revealed a web of potential criminal activities. Cantu's company, Legacy Holding Group USA, owns 50% of the Miss Universe organization, while the other half is owned by a Thai businesswoman, Jakkaphong 'Anne' Jakrajutatip.
This scandal adds to the growing list of controversies surrounding the Miss Universe pageant. Just recently, the 2025 pageant in Thailand was marred by rigging allegations, further tarnishing the event's reputation. And this is not the only legal issue; the Thai co-owner, Jakrajutatip, is also facing an arrest warrant for a fraud case, with a hearing scheduled for December 26.
The Miss Universe organization is now at the center of multiple legal battles, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what the future holds. Will the pageant be able to recover from these controversies? And what does this mean for the beauty industry at large? The story continues to unfold, leaving many questions unanswered and opinions divided.