Miss Venezuela contestants accuse each other of trading ‘sexual favours’ as organisers halt all events

Organisers of the Miss Venezuela pageant have been forced to launch an internal probe after former participants accused each other of receiving gifts from officials in exchange for 'sexual favours'.

The Miss Venezuela Organisation has halted all events after several weeks of social media mudslinging between previous beauty contestants. 

The organisation, which is owned transport business Grupo Cisneros, said it was trying to establish whether its 'strict code of ethics' had been violated.

In a statement it said: "In light of events discussed on social networks and blogs by some people linked to Miss Venezuela events, we have decided to launch an internal investigation to establish whether contestants have violated our strict code of values and ethics.

"All casting for Miss Venezuela and Mister Venezuela pageants are temporarily suspended."

It was alleged in a series of social media posts that woman had received cars and trips for sexual favours.

Alongside the investigation, organisers will review the event's rules and structuring as well as consider the creation of a new committee.

"Venezuelans can rest assured that we will do all we can to clean up any malpractices," the organisation added.

"Our organisation is committed to defending the rights and empowerment of our contestants, which has always served as a symbol of strength for Venezuelan women."

Allegations that young models were looking to climb the social ladder through romantic liaisons with corrupt officials and businessmen caused outrage in the beleaguered South American country.

Poverty and hardship is rife as authorities fail to stem the financial crisis and crippling hyperinflation.

The national currency has become largely useless and Venezuelans are reported to be fleeing their homeland in huge numbers.

Source: Mirror