A Ukrainian woman in her 30s has been identified as the prime suspect in a Monaco explosion that critically injured oligarch Vadim Yermolaiev, a woman, and a teenage boy. Interpol is preparing to issue a Most Wanted red notice for her arrest, according to an investigating source.
Suspect Description and Actions
The suspect, described as "armed and dangerous," has not been publicly identified but was captured on CCTV outside the Sun's Palace, the luxurious apartment complex owned by Yermolaiev. She is believed to have dumped the backpack that detonated in the foyer shortly before 9pm, activating the device while approximately 12 metres away.
"The prime suspect was identified by a witness," said an investigating source. "She is a Ukrainian woman in her thirties." CCTV footage shows her wearing a black bucket hat and long-sleeve top, escaping on foot across the border into France, where there are no checkpoints. She is thought to have headed towards Beausoleil in France and then onwards to Italy.
Investigation and Charges
French and Monégasque judicial authorities have launched a criminal investigation into attempted murder, placing an explosive device on a public road with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy. Stéphane Thibault, the Monaco prosecutor heading the investigation in Monte Carlo, stated: "We are attempting to arrest the suspect."
The explosion critically injured Yermolaiev, a Ukrainian oligarch, along with a woman and a teenage boy. Dozens of Monaco's emergency services were deployed near the site of the explosion. The suspect is thought to be in the company of accomplices and should be approached with extreme caution, the source added.
