A high-profile meeting between Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño and Raúl Rocha, president of the Miss Universe organization, has gained renewed significance following Rocha’s indictment on serious criminal charges. Mexican authorities have charged Rocha with leading an international trafficking network involving narcotics, weapons, and fuel between Guatemala and Mexico.
According to investigative reports, Rocha allegedly orchestrated a sophisticated smuggling operation moving contraband across the Usumacinta River via boat, with subsequent transportation via tanker trucks through Chiapas and Tabasco en route to Querétaro.
The previously undisclosed meeting occurred in October 2024 at the corporate offices of Rocha’s company, Legacy Holding, during an official visit by Prime Minister Briceño to Mexico City. Two government ministers—Michel Chebat and Dr. Osmond Martinez—accompanied the Prime Minister during the engagement. Rocha subsequently documented the encounter on social media, characterizing the discussions as focusing on “economic development, trade, tourism, and technology opportunities between Mexico and Belize.”
In response to developing reports, Prime Minister Briceño clarified that this constituted his only encounter with Rocha, emphasizing that his company had expressed interest in Belizean investment opportunities. The government has committed to issuing a formal statement addressing the matter.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has also met with Rocha, has formally requested the Attorney General’s office to confirm whether an active investigation or arrest warrant exists against the business executive, underscoring the importance of transparent judicial processes.