A dual Australian-Syrian national has been detained on suspicion of terrorism in Lebanon, Lebanese officials say.

Local media reports say Mark Eddie Maximus was arrested by military intelligence in Tripoli in Lebanon’s north, an area regarded as the main centre of jihadist activity in the country.

The unconfirmed reports say officials received intelligence that he was in the city to plan a terrorist attack.

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They tracked his car and arrested him after an exchange of gunfire.

Authorities were still reportedly looking for a woman, who is also suspected of working for the Islamic State (IS) group.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is seeking to confirm reports of the detention of an Australian man in Tripoli, Lebanon on suspicion of terrorism-related offences,” a department spokesperson said.

“Northern Lebanon, and Lebanon’s border areas with Syria, are listed as ‘do not travel’ destinations in Australia’s travel advice.”

– ABC