Ukrainian Tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev Injured in Monaco Explosion

Manhunt Underway for Suspect After Explosive Device Detonated in Monaco

A manhunt has begun in Monaco and France following an explosion at a residential building on Monday night. The incident, which occurred at 9pm local time, left several people injured, including three Ukrainian nationals who are believed to be members of the same family.

According to reports, the blast was caused by a makeshift explosive device that was detonated outside a building in central Monaco. French media outlets have identified the victims as Vadym Yermolaiev, his partner, and their 13-year-old son. The woman is reportedly in a life-threatening condition, while Yermolaiev and his son are believed to be less seriously injured.

French authorities are investigating the incident, with some reports suggesting that Ukraine’s Security Service may have been involved in directing the attack on Yermolaiev, who was placed under Ukrainian sanctions for his business dealings in Crimea in 2023. The attack is thought to have been intended as a warning rather than a deliberate attempt to kill him.

Monaco’s Prince Albert II described the incident as a “heinous crime” and a shock to the Monegasque community. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has stated that police are working to find the perpetrator, who has fled the scene.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities reviewing video surveillance footage of the incident. The explosive device contained bolts and buckshot, according to Christophe Mirmand, minister of state for Monaco.

A heavy police presence was seen at the scene on Tuesday, with a helicopter circling overhead. Three people were reported to have been hurt in the explosion, including a teenager. The victims were reportedly returning home peacefully when the bomb exploded, as captured by surveillance footage.

Source: Al Jazeera