Patrick
A Bangkok court has issued an arrest warrant for Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, the prominent Thai businesswoman and co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, after she failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing related to a fraud complaint.
Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance
The Bangkok South District Court confirmed that the warrant was issued on Wednesday. Jakrajutatip, who was previously charged with fraud and granted bail in 2023, did not show up for a mandated hearing on Tuesday.
Court officials stated that she provided no explanation for her absence, leading the judge to view her as a potential flight risk. The next hearing has now been postponed to December 26.
Details of the Fraud Allegations
According to the court, both Jakrajutatip and JKN Global Group Public Co. Ltd. are being sued by Raweewat Maschamadol. He alleges he was deceived into purchasing the company’s corporate bonds in 2023, resulting in losses of 30 million baht (approximately $930,362).
JKN’s Financial Troubles
- JKN began defaulting on investor payments in 2023.
- The company entered debt rehabilitation through the Central Bankruptcy Court in 2024.
- Total liabilities reportedly amount to 3 billion baht (about $93 million).
Ownership Changes Within Miss Universe Organization
JKN purchased the rights to the Miss Universe pageant from IMG Worldwide LLC in 2022. The following year, the company sold 50% of its holdings to Legacy Holding Group USA, owned by Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú.
In June 2024, Jakrajutatip stepped down from all official positions after Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission accused her of falsifying the company’s 2023 financial records. Despite her resignation, she remains the largest shareholder.
Uncertainty Surrounding Jakrajutatip’s Whereabouts
Her current location remains unknown. Notably, she did not attend the 74th Miss Universe competition held in Bangkok earlier this month.
Controversies Surrounding Miss Universe 2025
This year’s pageant faced several challenges:
- A Thai organizer publicly reprimanded Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico, who won the Miss Universe 2025 crown on November 19.
- Two judges reportedly withdrew, with one raising concerns about possible contest manipulation.
- Thai police launched an investigation into claims that event promotions illegally highlighted online casino platforms.
JKN recently dismissed rumors that Jakrajutatip had sold off company assets and fled Thailand. However, the company has not responded to the latest arrest warrant. Attempts to reach her for comment were unsuccessful.
A well-known media personality, Jakrajutatip has appeared in numerous Thai reality shows.
The arrest warrant for Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip marks another major setback for both her and JKN Global Group, a company already struggling with debt, legal scrutiny, and declining investor confidence.
As the court moves forward with its rescheduled December hearing, questions continue to grow about her whereabouts and the future stability of the Miss Universe Organization under its current ownership structure.