Russian military 'removes 1,500' Islamic State mines from Palmyra

Russian troops have been taking part in a massive de-mining operation in the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra Credit: CCTV

Russian forces in the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra are taking part in a massive de-mining operation.

The central city was retaken from Islamic State militants by government forces in March, and more than 1,500 mines have been removed, said Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

Specialists have been removing improvised explosive devices from roads and buildings in and around the ancient ruins.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site has been terribly damaged by jihadists Credit: CCTV

Some objects that could not be safely removed were destroyed by controlled explosions.

Recent photos have revealed the extent of the damage to what was once some of the world's most extensive and best-preserved ancient Roman ruins - caused by Islamic State jihadists and the fierce fighting that has taken place in and around the city.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site has been terribly damaged by jihadists Credit: CCTV

With the help of the Russian Air Force, the Syrian Army captured the city of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from Islamic State militants in March.