German police say they have arrested two men in Berlin who are suspected of plotting a major terrorist attack.

Officials say the suspects, a 24-year-old German of Lebanese descent and a 28-year-old from the Gaza Strip, were detained after attempting to purchase a large amount of chemicals that could be used to make an explosive device.

Police are searching the men's apartments, as well as an Islamic cultural center in connection with the case.

Police say the arrests follow an investigation of more than two months.