Monaco – 03.07.2026: In the night to Tuesday, the explosion of a package placed in the hallway of a residential building in Monaco injured three people and sparked a large-scale manhunt. The principality’s public prosecutor has opened proceedings for attempted murder; a terrorist background is not currently assumed. According to investigators, the evidence points to a targeted act.
The focus is on a 39-year-old woman who is being sought internationally. Analyzed video footage and witness statements suggest that the suspect disguised herself as a man before the act, scouted the entrance area several times and ultimately placed the prepared package. The Monegasque authorities did not publish the names of the victims. Several media outlets report consistently that the alleged target was Monaco-based businessman Vadim Ermolaev. This information has not been officially confirmed.
Investigators believe the woman left Monaco via France shortly after the act. At the request of the Monegasque judiciary, Interpol issued a so-called red notice to alert police services worldwide to the suspect and to enable her arrest for extradition. Authorities do not rule out that the act may have been carried out with assistance; possible accomplices are being sought.
No definitive findings on motive and background are available so far. Media reports point to earlier sanctions by Ukrainian authorities against Ermolaev, reportedly connected to economic activities on the Crimea annexed by Russia. The Monegasque judiciary emphasizes it is examining all leads but does not comment on unconfirmed reports.
The attack occurred in a residential neighborhood near the French border. Because of the possible escape route, the Direction de la sûreté publique de Monaco, French police services and international partners are working closely together. The investigation is supported by forensic analyses, the evaluation of traffic and surveillance cameras and checks of travel movements. According to authorities, the condition of the injured is stable; further details are not disclosed for privacy reasons.
The public prosecutor announced further steps to clarify identity, the sequence of events and the procurement of the explosive device. Investigators are securing traces at the scene and checking whether similar methods have been used in other cases. Tips from the public are to be centralized at the Monegasque and French agencies. Until further notice, authorities ask the public to avoid speculation and to await official statements.
Sources
- franceinfo
- Euronews
- TF1 Info
- Al Jazeera (media reports)
- Interpol (press statements)