A rare parcel bomb explosion at a residential building in Monaco has left three people seriously injured, including Ukrainian businessman Vadym Yermolaiev, according to multiple media reports and sources familiar with the investigation.
The explosion, which occurred on Monday night near Monaco’s border with France, has prompted a large-scale cross-border investigation as authorities search for the suspect believed to have fled into French territory.
Parcel Bomb Triggers Rare Attack in Monaco
The Monaco government confirmed that the powerful explosion was caused by a parcel bomb, describing it as an isolated but serious incident in the normally peaceful Mediterranean principality.
Emergency services responded quickly, while security personnel secured the area and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the blast.
Monaco’s head of state, Prince Albert II, condemned the incident as an “odious act” and said all government agencies had been mobilised to ensure public safety and support the investigation.
Three People Injured in Explosion
According to Monaco officials, two adults sustained life-threatening injuries, while a 13-year-old suffered less severe injuries.
The injured were transported to hospitals in neighbouring France for treatment.
Authorities did not officially identify the victims. However, French and Ukrainian media outlets, citing sources close to the investigation, reported that one of the injured was Ukrainian businessman Vadym Yermolaiev.
Who Is Vadym Yermolaiev?
According to Ukrainian media reports, Vadym Yermolaiev is a prominent construction businessman.
Reports also noted that he was placed under Ukrainian sanctions in 2023 over alleged business links to Russia. Those reports have resurfaced following Monday night’s explosion, although investigators have not established any connection between those sanctions and the attack.
Authorities have not publicly commented on a possible motive.
Suspect Believed to Have Fled to France
Monaco’s public prosecutor said investigators believe the suspect left a bag or package in the lobby of the residential building shortly before the explosion.
Officials stated that the individual was captured on surveillance cameras before crossing into the neighbouring French town of Beausoleil on foot.
French police have joined the investigation and are assisting Monaco authorities in locating the suspect.
Investigation Continues
Monaco’s Minister of State, Christophe Mirmand, said investigators are examining all available evidence, including surveillance footage and forensic material recovered from the scene.
Authorities emphasised that it is too early to determine the motive behind the explosion or whether the victims were specifically targeted.
Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation remains ongoing.
The blast has drawn international attention because violent attacks are extremely uncommon in Monaco, one of Europe’s safest and most closely monitored states. Investigators from both Monaco and France continue to work together to identify the suspect and determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
