An explosion rocked an apartment building at 9 p.m. on 29/6, located on a street along the French border. The blast severely injured a couple in their 50s and 60s, while a 13-year-old, believed to be related to them, sustained minor injuries. The couple is currently in critical condition.

Emergency responders also treated four individuals for psychological shock and minor injuries caused by broken window glass from the blast's force.

Ukrainian tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev. *Photo: vadymiermolaiev.info*

An AFP reporter observed a heavy police presence at the scene, which was sealed off, with a helicopter circling overhead. The explosive device reportedly contained bolts and metal fragments, designed to increase its destructive power.

Monaco officials have not released the victims' identities, but a source familiar with the investigation confirmed that one of the injured is Ukrainian tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev.

Monaco Secretary of State Christophe Mirmand initially described the incident as an "attack" but later revised his statement, calling it a "targeted explosion." He added, "To my knowledge, this is the first time such an act has occurred in the Principality of Monaco."

Prince Albert II called the incident a "heinous crime" and a "shock to the entire Monaco community."

Police at the scene of the explosion in Monaco on the morning of 30/6. *Photo: Reuters*

An aide to French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stated that the suspect has fled and police are searching for them. According to Monaco prosecutor Stephane Thibault, the suspect left a bag or package in the building's lobby before leaving.

The reason why this specific building was targeted remains unknown.

Yermolaiev, a tycoon residing in Monaco, has been on Ukraine's sanctions list since December 2023. These sanctions are reportedly linked to his alcohol business operations in Russian-controlled Crimea.

Huyen Le (According to AFP)