Police hunt suspect after blast injures three people

Authorities in Monaco and France have launched a cross-border manhunt after an explosion injured three people in an attack reportedly targeting a Ukrainian-born businessman.

Police in Monaco and neighbouring France are searching for a suspected bomber after an explosion injured three people in the wealthy principality. Authorities believe the suspect fled into France shortly after the blast.

The explosion happened on Monday evening in Monaco, a state known for its luxury lifestyle, casinos and high-profile residents.

Cross-border manhunt under way

Christophe Mirmand, Monaco’s minister of state, said investigators believe the suspect escaped across the French border.

Monaco shares an open border with France, while Italy also lies nearby. As a result, authorities from both countries are coordinating their investigation.

Meanwhile, the three victims remain in hospital. Mirmand said a woman suffered the most serious injuries, while a young man sustained less severe wounds.

Reports identify possible target

French and Ukrainian media reported that the attack targeted Vadym Yermolaiev, a Ukrainian-born businessman and former real estate developer from Dnipro.

According to the reports, Yermolaiev gave up his Ukrainian citizenship several years ago and later became a citizen of Cyprus.

Ukraine imposed sanctions on him in December 2023 over allegations linked to business activities in Russian-occupied Crimea. However, Yermolaiev denied owning or operating businesses in Crimea during a 2024 interview with RBC-Ukraine.

Authorities have not confirmed whether he was the intended target.

Investigation focuses on surveillance footage

Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage as part of the inquiry.

French media reported that security cameras captured a man leaving a backpack outside the entrance of a residential building shortly before the explosion.

In addition, Monaco Matin published a CCTV image showing a man wearing dark clothing and a hat while carrying a white shoulder bag. The newspaper identified him as the suspected attacker.

BFM TV, citing Monaco’s prosecutor general, reported that the explosive device appeared to be a parcel bomb.

Prince Albert condemns attack

Prince Albert of Monaco described the explosion as “an odious act” and said the attack had shocked the principality.

He added that Monaco is working closely with French authorities to identify and arrest the suspect.