Law enforcement agencies in Monaco and France commenced a search Monday night for an individual suspected of deploying a homemade explosive device that resulted in multiple injuries, with two victims in critical condition.
The detonation occurred just before 9 p.m. local time in the heart of Monaco, near the entrance of a residential complex. Reports, citing French media, indicate that surveillance footage captured a man depositing a backpack at the location moments prior to the blast.
Investigation Underway Following Unprecedented Incident
Monaco’s minister of state, Christophe Mirmand, confirmed to a news channel that two of those affected sustained life-threatening injuries.
“No event of this nature has ever happened in the principality before,” Mirmand stated, highlighting the unusual nature of the incident for the sovereign state.
French emergency services were dispatched to the scene to provide assistance. A collaborative effort to locate the suspect has been initiated by authorities in both France and Monaco, as confirmed by France’s Interior Ministry.
According to a local prosecutor general, the device involved was characterized as a “parcel bomb.”
Regional Leaders Condemn Attack
Eric Ciotti, who serves as the mayor of the neighboring French city of Nice, issued a statement condemning the occurrence via social media.
“The attack carried out this evening is a tragedy that strikes Monaco. Thoughts for the victims, their families, and the people of Monaco. Total support for the security forces and emergency services mobilized,” Ciotti wrote.
Similarly, Alexandra Masson, the mayor of Menton, another nearby French town, conveyed her solidarity with Monaco and extended her thoughts to the victims and their families.
“I extend my full support to the Principality of Monaco during the ordeal it is going through. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and their loved ones. I express my deepest gratitude,” Masson posted.
