An international investigation into child sex abuse online is looking at over 700 suspects in 12 different countries.

"Operation Endeavour" has uncovered gangs targeting children as young as six in the Philippines.

A number of people have already been convicted of paying to watch child sex abuse online - including five people in Britain.

It's not yet known if any Irish people are being investigated.

Stephanie McCourt from the National Crime Agency in the UK says there are several lines of inquiry:

The investigation, involving police in the US, the UK and Australia, has been going on for two years into what has been described as a "significant and emerging threat".

Ms. McCourt added, "In this sort of case, not only are we following the internet trails, we're looking at the finances as well". She said her organisation is working with international partners in industry and online watchdogs to win convictions.

Police have so far rescued 15 children aged six to 15 who have been identified as victims in the videos - in some cases after their relatives sold them for abuse.