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Riot police descended on Copacabana beach amid reports of gunfire as Brazil were demolished 7-1 by Germany in the World Cup semi-final.

An armed gang carried out a 'mass robbery' on a bar in a fanpark where thousands were watching the match on a big screen, according to reports.

They ransacked the bar, firing shots into the air and stole bags and jewellery.

Terrified supporters fled the scene in panic as Brazilian riot police moved in.

Journalists reported 'loud bangs' which they believed to be gunfire.

Pictures emerged of several arrests and flags being burnt amid reports of fans fighting among themselevs.

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Inside the stadium, fans were left in floods of tears as they watch their team humiliated.

A huge security operation had been put in place ahead of the World Cup showdown with thousands of military troops and police on duty amid fears of violent protests.

Bomb squad officers were also in place due to the potential use of ‘dirty bombs’ by some protest groups

They have threatened to use violence in ongoing disputes over pay for ordinary Government workers, and the huge £10 billion cost of the World Cup and Olympics in 2016 in Rio.

Anti-aircraft guns were deployed close to grounds and commercial flights will not be allowed to land at eight airports within a four nautical mile no-fly radius.

The suspension began one hour before games kick off and last for 4 to 5 hours.

Special laws have been put in place for the tournament.

Security forces will be armed with robots, X-ray machines and toxic gas detectors.