Miley Cyrus is reportedly in hot water in Mexico after twerking on the country's flag.

The 21-year-old singer caused offence during a gig in Monterrey, Mexico, performing some of her signature dance moves while a dancer spanked her giant prosthetic bottom with the country's flag.

The incident took place on Mexican Independence Day and officials are apparently upset about the star's alleged lack of respect - and it seems Miley could even be prosecuted.

State Representative Francisco Trevino told CNN that the Mexican Interior Ministry had opened an investigation about Miley's antics, at the request of the state legislature.

He said: "I felt truly offended and annoyed by the fact that a foreign artist feels like she can come here and make fun of and mock our national flag on Independence Day, September 16th. She brazenly made fun of our flag."

However, the show in question was the first of Miley's four planned Bangerz Tour gigs in Mexico, and the Wrecking Ball star did not repeat her actions at her next concert.

Trevino said: "It's important to notice that in her second concert Wednesday she didn't desecrate the flag. There were several flags on display at the concert venue, but their use was appropriate."

Reports suggest that if Miley is prosecuted she could be fined over a thousand US dollars or could be detained for 36 hours.