Suspects detained in alleged bomb plot

German officials have stated that a number of people have been questioned in relation to an alleged bomb plot to blow up a passenger plane, according to reports.

Six identified suspects and a number of unidentified suspects were detained after information emerged that someone with access to an airport had expressed a willingness to smuggle a bag on board a plane for payment, according to a federal prosecutor's office statement quoted by Reuters.

"The suspects were temporarily taken into custody and informed of the suspicions against them before they were released on Saturday, with the exception of one wanted in connection with another crime," the statement read.

The BBC noted that the person approached by the suspects had special access to a restricted airport zone.

The office in Karlsruhe stated that the people detained were suspected of being part of a terrorist organisation.

Apartments in the western German states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse were reportedly searched by the authorities.