As evidence grows that major historical sites are being looted in Syria, how much are groups such as Islamic State profiting from the global trade in illicit antiquities?

In the last few days, Islamic State has released footage of militants destroying ancient artefacts in Mosul in Iraq. The group justified the attacks, quoting chapters from the Koran which they say demand the destruction of idols and icons. But is it also making money from antiquities which are being looted from historical sites in areas the group controls?

Simon Cox travels to Lebanon to hear from police who have seized artefacts being smuggled into the country from Syria – the majority of them from Islamic State run territories. He speaks to smugglers and middleman who claim IS is directly involved in the trade and also profits from taxing looters.

The programme traces the route the goods take, with most ending up in the Gulf and Europe. And we hear evidence that items are being sold and traded in London.

(Photo: A haul of ancient coins said to be looted from Syria. BBC copyright)