German police warn ‘terror attack’ planned in Munich

BERLIN, Germany – German police on Thursday, December 31, said they had “indications that a terror attack” was being planned for New Year’s Eve in the southern city of Munich, as they called on the public to avoid large gatherings and two key train stations.

“Current indications show that a terror attack is being planned in Munich. Please avoid gatherings of people and the Munich and Pasing train stations,” police said in a tweet.

Both stations have been evacuated, they said, and train services were no longer running at the two stations. 

A police spokeswoman told Agence France-Presse that they had “reliable information” that a group was planning to act as festivities were well under way on New Year’s Eve.

Although the train stations have been evacuated, the spokeswoman said it could not be ruled out that the attackers could seek another target.

European capitals are on high security alert, with Brussels and Paris both scrapping fireworks for New Year’s celebrations.

In Berlin, the police presence has been stepped up at the Brandenburg Gate, where hundreds of thousands of people have gathered for festivities. All large bags and backpacks have been banned from the site of the huge street party. – Rappler.com