By Brazil correspondent Stephen Cviic

One of Mexico's most famous singers, Gloria Trevi, has been arrested in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro following allegations that she and her manager kidnapped and sexually abused young girls.

Miss Trevi, her manager Sergio Andrade and another performer were arrested by the Brazilian federal police in a fashionable beach district, following an extradition request from the Mexican Government.

Looking calm and well groomed, Miss Trevi refused to answer reporters' questions about the serious charges she faces in Mexico.

The three are now in custody in Rio awaiting extradition but it is not known how long that process will take.

'Web of sexual abuse'

Gloria Trevi became famous as a witty, sexually provocative pop star who sang and danced in skimpy clothing and poked fun at Mexican politicians.

But last year rumours began to circulate that the young singers in her entourage were in fact being sucked into a web of sexual abuse.

One 17-year-old Mexican girl was reunited with her family last year after five years in Mr Andrade's custody.

On the run

The girl herself denied reports of abuse but her family said Gloria Trevi had helped her manager to seduce their daughter before she reached the age of consent.

Miss Trevi has in the past rejected all the accusations against her.

According to the Mexican authorities, Miss Trevi and Mr Andrade spent several months on the run spending time in various Latin American countries before finally arriving in Brazil.

Now they will have to await the beginning of the extradition process and the chance to try to clear their names.