Miss Universe Owner Accused of Fuel and Arms Trafficking, Turns Witness
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The Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) has frozen the assets of Raúl Rocha Cantú, a prominent Monterrey businessman and 50% owner of the Miss Universe franchise, amid allegations of involvement in a criminal network trafficking illegal fuel and weapons. The investigation, which began in 2024, centers on accusations that Rocha Cantú and associates facilitated the flow of illicit goods to criminal organizations.
Investigation Unfolds, Cooperation Sought
On November 26, the Attorney GeneralS Office confirmed the ongoing investigation and its efforts to gather data related to Rocha Cantú’s alleged activities. Together, Rocha Cantú proactively sought protection under the “chance criterion” – a form of cooperation with prosecutors – after a federal judge issued arrest warrants for him and 12 others. The warrants cite charges of organized crime, drug trafficking, illegal fuel sales (“huachicol”), and arms trafficking.
According to a copy of the arrest warrant obtained by The Day, Rocha Cantú is allegedly responsible for crimes related to hydrocarbons, arms trafficking, and organized crime. The investigation was triggered by an anonymous complaint received on November 29, 2024, detailing the alleged criminal enterprise.
A Network of Alleged Criminal Activity
The investigation identifies a broader criminal group beyond Rocha Cantú, including individuals known as “Kevin,” Jacobo Reyes León, Jorge Alberts Ponce, “Alejandro,” “Íker,” and Daniel Roldan. These individuals are purportedly involved in trafficking, purchasing, and selling weapons, laundering illicit funds, and activities related to hydrocarbons.
Details within the Attorney General’s file reveal a sophisticated operation. One key figure, identified as “Kevin,” is described as a leader in the sale of heavy-caliber weapons in Mexico City. These weapons allegedly enter the country via the Guatemalan border, concealed within buses transporting clothing and other goods arriving in the pino suárez area. The source of the weapons is reportedly a woman based in Guatemala, connected to an individual known as “Charly.” “Kevin” is said to market and sell these weapons online, utilizing WhatsApp for distribution.
Security Firm Allegedly Used for Money Laundering
The investigation further alleges that a security company located in the Álvaro Obregón mayor’s office in Mexico City, with partners among those implicated, is being used to launder money for criminal organizations including La unión and the Cartel Jalisco Nueva generación.This company is also accused of facilitating the purchase and sale of weapons, including branding and resale.
The case highlights the complex intersection of legitimate businesses and criminal activity in Mexico, and the challenges authorities face in disrupting these networks. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and pursue further leads.
Why, Who, What, and How did it end?
Why: The investigation was initiated due to allegations of Raúl Rocha Cantú and associates involvement in a criminal network trafficking illegal fuel and weapons.
Who: Raúl Rocha Cantú, a 50% owner of the Miss Universe franchise, along with associates including “Kevin,” Jacobo Reyes León, Jorge Alberts Ponce, “Alejandro,” “Íker,” Daniel Roldan, and individuals in Guatemala (“Charly” and a woman sourcing weapons) are implicated. A security company in Mexico City is also under investigation.
What: The alleged criminal activity includes illegal fuel sales (“huachicol”), arms trafficking, organized crime, and
