German officials say several IS members were plotting a suicide bombing on New Year's Eve in the southern city of Munich.

German police guard the main train station in Munich. Photo: Reuters

"Five to seven suspects" were believed to have planned a "suicide attack" on New Year's Eve, AFP quoted Munich police chief Hubertus Andrae as saying.

Police evacuated Munich's main train station and a station in Pasing after warnings of a possible terrorist attack. Train services in Munich were suspended and security forces urged people not to gather in crowded places.

550 officers have been deployed to hunt for the suspect and provide security, although no arrests have been made. A police spokesman said they could not rule out the possibility that the attackers had sought other targets.

European capitals are on high alert for terrorist threats. Brussels and Paris have canceled New Year's Eve fireworks. Belgian police have arrested five people accused of plotting New Year's attacks in Brussels.

In Berlin, police have increased their presence at the Brandenburg Gate, where hundreds of thousands of people have gathered for the festival. Security forces have banned people from bringing large bags and backpacks to the street party.

According to VNE