Monaco Launches Investigation After Rare Explosion
Authorities in Monaco, with support from French police, have launched an extensive search for a suspect following a powerful explosion that injured three members of the same family on Monday evening. Investigators believe the blast was a deliberate attack involving a parcel bomb left outside a residential building.
According to officials, the suspect fled on foot toward France shortly after the explosion. The incident is being investigated as an attempted murder rather than an act of terrorism.
Business Tycoon and Family Among the Injured
Media reports identified one of the victims as Ukrainian-born businessman Vadym Yermolaiev, who later became a Cypriot citizen. He was reportedly injured along with his partner and his son when the explosive device detonated as they approached their apartment.
Officials said the woman remains in critical condition, while the businessman’s condition has stabilized. The child suffered less serious injuries. All three victims are receiving medical treatment, and investigators are expected to interview them once their health allows.
Yermolaiev has lived in Monaco for several years and was sanctioned by Ukrainian authorities in 2023 over alleged business activities linked to Russian-occupied Crimea. Authorities have not confirmed whether those past events are connected to the attack.
Police Continue Search Across Monaco and France
Security agencies from Monaco and France are working together to locate the suspect, using surveillance footage and other evidence collected from the scene. Investigators believe the attacker intentionally placed the explosive device outside the family’s residence before escaping across the nearby French border.
Monaco’s leadership strongly condemned the bombing, calling it a shocking and unacceptable act in one of Europe’s safest and most secure locations. The explosion has raised concerns among residents and prompted increased security measures while the investigation continues.
Police have not announced any arrests, and the motive behind the attack remains under investigation.
