An arrest warrant has been issued for a suspect in the parcel bombing that seriously wounded sanctioned Ukrainian-born multimillionaire Vadym Iermolaiev and two others in Monaco, the principality's prosecutor's office announced on Thursday. The suspect will be the subject of an Interpol Red Notice from Thursday evening.
Suspect Details
French media Le Figaro and BFMTV reported that the suspect, captured on CCTV wearing a black fisherman's hat, is believed to be a woman who attempted to pass as a man. Monaco's public prosecutor, Stephane Thibault, did not confirm this detail but praised the rapid identification of the suspect through effective international police and judicial cooperation.
Investigation and Charges
A judicial investigation for attempted murder and several other charges has been opened, entrusted to three investigating judges. Thibault announced a press briefing for Friday at shortly before noon.
The Attack
On Monday evening, an individual left a package in the entrance hall of a small apartment building near the French border. Shortly afterward, an explosive device detonated as three residents—a couple and a 13-year-old—entered, injuring them. The victims have not been officially confirmed, but consistent sources identify them as Vadym Iermolaiev, 58, his partner, and his son.
Victims' Conditions
The 13-year-old was admitted to Lenval children's hospital in Nice in non-critical emergency condition. The two adults, initially in life-threatening condition, were taken to Nice university hospital. By Wednesday, the man was no longer in a life-or-death situation, but the woman's condition had not yet stabilized.
Background of Iermolaiev
Iermolaiev, a wealthy businessman originally from Ukraine and now a Cypriot national, has resided in Monaco since at least 2021. He has been under Ukrainian sanctions since December 2023 for his business activities in Crimea, annexed by Russia. Kyiv alleges he operated an alcohol business there, paying taxes to Moscow even after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. A source told AFP that many in Dnipro, where Iermolaiev made his wealth, would have motives against him.
Impact on Monaco
The bombing has shocked Monaco, an ultra-secure micro-state near Nice known as a playground for the world's ultra-rich.
