German police have carried out dozens of raids against far-right suspects accused of plotting attacks on refugees, Jews and police officers.

At least two people were detained, and officers confiscated weapons and explosives.

Several of those targeted were believed to have links to the Reichsburger movement, an extremist group which rejects the legitimacy of the German republic.

“Rising right-wing terrorism is being thwarted by the security authorities. This is demonstrated by the measures taken today and this is shown by bans on these organisations last year. The rule of law also remains determined and vigilant,” Germany’s Interior Minister, Thomas de Maizière told reporters.

The Reichsburger group is believed to overlap with neo-nazis and security sources say the ranks of far-right groups are swelling. Last year, German authorities broke up a suspected ultra-right wing militant group known as ‘Old School Society’, but warned other groups could emerge.