BANGKOK, Nov 6 — What began as a glittering pageant in Bangkok has spiralled into one of Miss Universe’s biggest controversies yet complete with walkouts, public apologies, and a police raid over alleged gambling promotions.

The drama first erupted on Tuesday during the Sashing Ceremony when Miss Universe Mexico Fatima Bosch reportedly stormed out after a heated exchange with Nawat Itsaragrisil, the outspoken chairman of the Miss Universe Thailand Host Committee and CEO of Miss Grand International.