Explosion in Monaco: the suspect unknown to justice, search intensifies

Following the explosion of a booby-trapped package Monday evening in Monaco, the general prosecutor’s office opened an investigation for attempted murder. The investigations are being conducted with French authorities. Three people were injured, including Ukrainian oligarch Vadim Ermolaev. Two victims remain in critical condition.

The investigation is progressing the day after the explosion of a booby-trapped package that occurred in front of a building in the Principality of Monaco located on Reverend Father Louis Frolla Street. General Prosecutor Stéphane Thibault announced the opening of an investigation for attempted murder. The investigations have been entrusted to the judicial police of public safety and the technical and scientific police of Monaco, in connection with the Nice prosecutor’s office.

According to initial information, a “lone man” “deposited a package” at the foot of a building. The explosion occurred as the victims were entering the building. The package remains under analysis. “An investigation for attempted murder has been opened,” said Stéphane Thibault. The possibility of a terrorist attack is not being prioritized at this stage.

The general prosecutor’s office clarifies that no investigation exists in Monaco concerning the suspect. “There is no investigation concerning the suspect in Monaco and, to our knowledge, he is not wanted internationally,” added Stéphane Thibault. Judicial proceedings are to be opened Wednesday. The general prosecutor hopes that the identification and apprehension of the suspect “will happen fairly quickly.”

Two victims still in critical condition

Three people were injured in the blast, including Ukrainian oligarch Vadim Ermolaev. The general prosecutor confirms that “two of the victims” are still “in critical condition.” The vital prognosis of the seriously injured man is no longer at risk. That of the woman remains at risk. Two other victims, described as “collateral,” were struck by glass shards.

The three injured were hospitalized in Nice. The two adults are being treated at Pasteur University Hospital. The 13-year-old teenager was admitted to Lenval Hospital.

The Nice prosecutor’s office reportedly opened a parallel investigation Monday evening for criminal association, possession and use of explosives.

In a statement, Prince Albert II addressed his thoughts to the victims and expressed his support for law enforcement. “The criminal explosion that occurred this evening in Monaco is a shock to the entire Monegasque community,” wrote the sovereign. The statement also emphasizes that “Under the authority of the government, all concerned State services are currently mobilized in close cooperation with French authorities. We trust them to quickly clarify the circumstances of this tragedy, identify those responsible and provide all necessary answers at every level.”

Prince Albert II concluded: “Now more than ever, the Principality of Monaco will remain united and determined in the face of violence and crime. The security of our community has always been a priority; it will remain so more than ever, regardless of the threats.”