At least six people have been shot dead during multiple attacks in Munich, Germany.

The shooting started at a shopping mall, police say.

According to police, at least three gunmen are involved in “suspected terror attack”

A big operation is under way. Police are telling people to stay at home and avoid the streets.

Several people have also been injured at the shopping center in the north-western Moosach district.

Photo AFP

Reports speak of one or more attackers. Some shopworkers are reportedly unable to leave the building.

The police Facebook page quoted eyewitnesses as saying they had seen three attackers carrying guns.

Police are now describing it as “an acute terror situation”.

The security forces have been on alert after a teenage refugee stabbed and injured five people on a train in Bavaria on July 18.

The authorities had warned of the danger of further attacks.

Public transport has been suspended as the extensive security operation continues.

NTV reports that special forces are at the scene. Munich’s central station has been evacuated.

Munich police said they did not know where “the perpetrators” were.

“Look after yourselves and avoid public places.”

People stranded by the emergency and unable to get home are being offered shelter by locals. The initiative was launched with the Twitter hashtag #Offenetür (open door).