The UN has selected Swedish scientist Ake Sellstorm to lead its investigation of alleged chemical weapons use in war-stricken Syria.

A UN official says the panel led by Sellstrom will consist of eight to ten investigators from Scandinavia, Latin America and Asia.

To avoid any biased views, the panel will exclude countries that support or oppose the current Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad.

The UN noted the panel will be based in Beirut, Lebanon, and hopes to begin investigation next week.