Monaco Explosion Not Terrorism, Prosecutor Says; Investigation Targets Package Bomber

Monaco's prosecutor general, Stéphane Thibault, has stated that the explosion which injured three people in a residential building on Monday evening was not a terrorist attack. The incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. on Rue Révérend Père Louis Frolla, involving a package that detonated as its intended recipients arrived.

“

A man alone, whose identification is underway, presented himself at the address and deposited a package, shortly before the three occupants of the apartment arrived in turn at the door (...) The package exploded at the precise moment these three people arrived.

Thibault detailed the sequence of events during a press conference, explaining that a lone individual placed a package at the address before the apartment's occupants appeared. The device exploded precisely as the three individuals reached their door. The investigation is being conducted in close coordination with French authorities, as the perpetrator fled towards Beausoleil, a town in France.

While the identity of the man targeted is still being confirmed, information suggests it was Vadim Ermolaev, a Monaco resident since 2021. Thibault noted that Ermolaev is not currently under investigation in Monaco and is not known to be sought by any foreign authority. The prosecutor clarified that Ermolaev's vital prognosis is no longer critical, though his wife remains in serious condition.

“

the vital prognosis for the man - Vadim Ermolaev, according to our information - is no longer engaged, unlike that of his wife, who is still in critical condition.

An investigation has been opened for attempted assassination and placing an explosive device in a public area. The device reportedly contained metal screws and shrapnel, indicating an intent to cause significant harm. The blast caused damage to surrounding properties, and emergency services treated several individuals for shock and minor injuries. The focus remains on identifying the perpetrator and understanding the motive behind this rare act of violence in the principality.

“

it is not a terrorist attack.