Based at Wellington House, 67-73 Buckingham Gate, London, the Unit is responsible for the collation and dissemination of intelligence pertaining to art crime and continues to run and update the London Stolen Art Database. The officers on the Unit are trained to investigate offences involving art, antiques, collectibles and cultural property. The team works closely with similar units worldwide to combat the illicit trade in art and cultural property.

The Unit also maintain databases to gather intelligence on suspected art thieves and handlers, and offers support and advice on crime prevention concerns – working closely with the galleries, libraries and professional institutions to prevent loss or damage to art and cultural property.