Miss Universe Co-Owner Faces Arrest Warrant in Thai Fraud Case

The Miss Universe Organization is facing renewed turmoil after a Thai court issued an arrest warrant for co-owner Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip. The warrant was confirmed on November 26, 2025, after she failed to appear at a scheduled hearing in Bangkok related to a 2023 fraud case.

Court Action and Fraud Allegations

The Bangkok South District Court deemed Jakrajutatip a flight risk following her absence on November 25. She had previously been released on bail for the fraud charge but provided no communication for missing the hearing.

The case involves plaintiff Raweewat Maschamadol, who alleges that Jakrajutatip and her company defrauded him in the sale of corporate bonds. The claim centers on an amount exceeding 30 million baht (approximately $930,000).

The court’s decision to issue an arrest order marks a serious escalation in the legal proceedings.

Organizational Impact

Amid the ongoing case, Jakrajutatip stepped down from her executive roles at JKN Global Group, though she remains the company’s largest shareholder. JKN issued a statement denying that she had fled Thailand, insisting she continues to cooperate with authorities.

This legal setback compounds existing challenges for the Miss Universe brand, which has faced a series of controversies in recent weeks.

Recent Miss Universe Turmoil

Just days before the arrest warrant, Olivia Yacé, the 2025 fourth runner-up, announced her resignation from her position. In an Instagram post, she explained that she wanted to stay true to her values of respect, dignity, and equal opportunity.

Meanwhile, the newly crowned Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch Fernández, publicly addressed criticism from a pageant executive during the competition. Fernández stated she was unafraid to speak out, signaling growing tensions within the organization.

These developments have cast a shadow over the Miss Universe pageant, which is typically a period of celebration following the crowning of a new winner.

A Period of Uncertainty

Jakrajutatip’s arrest warrant adds to the instability surrounding Miss Universe. As co-owner, her legal troubles raise questions about the organization’s leadership and future direction.

The Miss Universe brand, long celebrated for promoting global beauty and cultural exchange, now finds itself navigating reputational challenges. The combination of legal disputes, resignations, and public criticism underscores the difficulties facing the pageant during this transitional period.

What Comes Next

The situation remains fluid as Thai authorities pursue Jakrajutatip. The court’s decision highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the potential consequences for her role in the organization.

For Miss Universe, the timing could not be more difficult. With a new titleholder crowned and global attention focused on the pageant, the arrest warrant has shifted headlines toward controversy rather than celebration.

The case continues to develop, and further updates are expected as the investigation and court proceedings move forward.