A significant explosion has shaken Monaco, causing severe injuries to a Ukrainian billionaire oligarch and his wife. Vadim Yermolayev, 58, a prominent real estate tycoon and the 23rd wealthiest individual in Ukraine, reportedly left the country following the Russian invasion. The incident, described as a “deliberate explosion” by Monaco’s minister of state, involved a suspect captured on CCTV discarding a backpack on Rue du Révérend Père Louis Frolla before fleeing towards Beausoleil, France.
Officials indicated that the explosive device likely contained bolts and shot, resulting in injuries to Yermolayev, his partner, and a 13-year-old boy. The suspect, identified through video surveillance, crossed into France on foot. A massive manhunt is underway with a strong police presence in Monaco, including helicopters and French rescue teams aiding the search efforts.
Yermolayev, known for his business ventures in real estate and other sectors, has faced sanctions in Ukraine related to his activities in Russian-occupied Crimea. The explosion, believed to be a targeted attack, left several individuals shaken but not critically injured, according to reports. The community remains on high alert as authorities work to apprehend the suspect and gather evidence in what is described as an unprecedented event in Monaco.