Additional Coverage:
Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) announced on Tuesday that it has recovered the body of Anastasiia Berezovska, a Ukrainian national wanted by Monaco authorities in connection with a bombing targeting business tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev.
According to the SBU, a military intelligence officer in Ukraine, along with a former law enforcement official, confessed to killing Berezovska. The officer stated that he acted independently, without notifying his superiors.
The bombing, which occurred on June 29 in Monaco, targeted Yermolaiev-who is known to have ties to Russia-and his family. The explosion injured three people, including a child, and sent shockwaves through Monaco, a city renowned for its luxury lifestyle, tax incentives, and prestigious events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Monaco’s head of state, Prince Albert II, condemned the attack as “an odious act” and emphasized the full mobilization of public services to maintain security.
Interpol had previously issued a Red Notice for Berezovska, identifying her as the prime suspect. She faced charges including attempted murder, placing an explosive device in a public area with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy. Interpol stated on Tuesday that the Red Notice would remain active until Monaco requests its removal.
Investigators focused on the two men after uncovering multiple cryptocurrency and bank transfers to Berezovska. Searches of the former law enforcement officer’s residence uncovered a basement described by the SBU as resembling a torture chamber.
During a crime reconstruction prompted by one suspect’s testimony, Berezovska’s body was discovered with gunshot wounds to the head. Spent pistol casings were also recovered at the scene. Both men are currently detained on suspicion of premeditated murder.
The SBU has shared all gathered information with Monaco’s authorities and is continuing its investigation to identify those who orchestrated the attempted assassination in Monaco.