Miss Universe Co-Owner Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip Faces Arrest Warrant in Fraud Case
BANGKOK: On February 11, 2023, a court in Thailand confirmed the issuance of an arrest warrant for Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, a co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, due to her involvement in a fraud case.
Fraud Charges and Court Absence
Jakrajutatip, who was previously charged with fraud and released on bail, failed to appear in a Bangkok court on the required date. The court deemed her a flight risk after she did not notify officials of her absence, leading to the issuance of the arrest warrant, according to a statement from the Bangkok South District Court.
Details of the Allegations
The allegations against Jakrajutatip and her company, JKN Global Group Public Co. Ltd., stem from claims of defrauding Raweewat Maschamadol, who invested in corporate bonds sold by the company in 2023. Maschamadol alleges that the investment caused losses amounting to 30 million baht (approximately $930,362).
Financial Troubles for JKN Global Group
JKN has encountered severe financial difficulties, defaulting on payments to investors since 2023. In response, the company began debt rehabilitation proceedings in the Central Bankruptcy Court, claiming total debts of around 3 billion baht (about $93 million).
Miss Universe Rights Acquisition
In 2022, JKN acquired the rights to the Miss Universe pageant from IMG Worldwide LLC. In a subsequent move, the company sold 50% of its shares in the Miss Universe Organization to the Legacy Holding Group USA, owned by Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú.
Investigations into Raúl Rocha Cantú
Currently, Rocha Cantú is under investigation in Mexico for alleged organized crime activities, which include drug trafficking and fuel theft. The Mexican Attorney General’s Office identified him as a target in the case.
Company Fallout and Jakkaphong’s Resignation
Following accusations from Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission of falsifying the company’s financial statements, Jakrajutatip resigned from all positions within the company in June 2023 but remains its largest shareholder. Her current whereabouts are unknown, as she did not attend the recent Miss Universe competition held in Bangkok.
Controversies Surrounding the Competition
The latest Miss Universe event was marred by issues, including accusations of rigging and a controversial incident involving Thai organizers and the crowned winner, Fatima Bosch Fernandez of Mexico. Additionally, Thai police are investigating claims regarding illegal online casino promotions connected to the event.
Despite rumors of her liquidating company assets and fleeing the country, JKN has firmly denied these allegations, and no response has been received regarding the arrest warrant for Jakrajutatip. As a prominent public figure in Thailand, she is known for her appearances in reality shows and her advocacy for transgender rights.
