Perpetrator in Belgian attacks was involved in art smuggling

One of the perpetrators of the 22 March terror attacks was actively involved in the smuggling of works of art from Syria to Belgium, reveals Paris Match today based on French sources close to the investigation. The magazine does not name the offender.

The International Criminal Police Organization Interpol is concerned that Belgium has become a European hub for the illegal trade in art and antiquities, which contributes to the financing of terrorist groups worldwide.

"Belgium, which has long been a popular destination for antiquities and other cultural objects that were smuggled or obtained illegally, will certainly attract more smugglers," warned Interpol in an email to prime minister Charles Michel in early September, according to Paris Match. The email came in response to the government's dismantling of the art and antiquities division of the federal police.

The magazine also reveals that Belgian customs authorities earlier this year intercepted two tombstones from the third millennium BC that came from Syria's ancient site of Mari, which was heavily looted in recent years.