Monaco police are searching for a Ukrainian woman suspected of a bomb attack targeting oligarch Vadym Jermolajev and his family. According to reports from Le Figaro and BFMTV, the suspect allegedly disguised herself as a man to evade detection during the explosion, which left Jermolajev’s wife, Anna Nasobina, in critical condition.
How did the bomb attack occur in Monaco?
The explosion took place on a Monday evening in the Place des Moulins area. Surveillance footage shows the suspect monitoring Vadym Jermolajev and his family for several days prior to the incident. At approximately 9:00 p.m., the suspect followed the family, maintaining a distance of about 10 meters before placing a bag at the entrance of their residence.
According to BFMTV, the suspect waited until the family approached the door before triggering the device via remote detonation. The blast caused severe injuries to those present. Anna Nasobina, the wife of the Ukrainian oligarch, suffered critical injuries and lost both legs in the explosion. Vadym Jermolajev was also injured, while a 13-year-old boy sustained minor injuries, reports indicate.
Vadym Jermolajev is identified as the 45th wealthiest person in Ukraine.
Who is the suspected bomber?
Authorities have identified the suspect as a Ukrainian woman in her 30s who previously resided in Germany. While she has been identified by police, she remains at large. Documents obtained by BFMTV suggest she is likely attempting to disguise herself as a man to avoid capture.
Le Figaro reported that surveillance footage captured the woman wearing a large black hat, a black vest, white trousers, and white sneakers. Although she is currently not in Monaco or France, police believe she has fled to another country within Europe. Monaco-Matin reports that she is now internationally wanted.
What are the primary investigative leads?
The Monegasque justice system has requested international assistance to track the suspect. While police have not confirmed a specific motive, BFMTV reports that investigators are pursuing two primary theories: the involvement of organized crime or the actions of foreign actors.
The investigation’s focus on these two tracks highlights the complexity of high-profile targeting in the region. Because the victim is a prominent Ukrainian figure, the possibility of state-linked or foreign-directed activity is being treated as a serious possibility by authorities.
Source Detail Comparison
- Le Figaro: Provided specific visual details of the suspect’s clothing (black hat, black vest, white pants, and sneakers).
- BFMTV: Focused on the tactical execution of the crime, specifically the use of remote detonation and the suspect’s attempt to impersonate a man.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the target of the explosion?
The target was Vadym Jermolajev, a prominent Ukrainian oligarch, and his family.
What is the status of the suspect?
The suspect is a Ukrainian woman in her 30s who is internationally wanted. She is believed to be somewhere in Europe but is not currently in Monaco or France.
How severe were the injuries?
Anna Nasobina, Jermolajev’s wife, is in critical condition after losing both legs. A 13-year-old boy sustained minor injuries.
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