A Ukrainian woman suspected of involvement in the attempted murder of a Ukrainian oligarch in Monaco has been discovered deceased. Vadim Ermolaev, 58, sustained severe injuries in an explosion near his residence last month, prompting authorities to release images of a person of interest linked to the incident.
Anastasiia Berezovska, a 39-year-old Ukrainian, was identified by Interpol as the prime suspect in the June 30 attack in Monaco that resulted in injuries to Ermolaev and two others. Initially believed to be a man in disguise, Berezovska was issued an arrest warrant for fleeing the scene and traveling to Germany.
An Interpol Red Notice issued on Friday specified that Berezovska, born in Ukraine and residing in Germany, was wanted in Monaco for attempted murder and placing an explosive device with criminal intent. Described as having dark hair and a snake tattoo on her right arm, she was recently found deceased near Kyiv.
According to sources cited by Ukrainian site Pravda, two individuals, including a current officer of the Main Intelligence Directorate and a former law enforcement officer, have been detained in connection with Berezovska’s death. Described as “armed” and “dangerous” by a Monaco law enforcement source, the suspect’s rented flat and vehicle were searched by German police, who confirmed the woman was evading capture.
Monaco deputy prosecutor Morgan Raymond highlighted the complexity of the explosive device used in the attack, suggesting potential accomplices. Although two men were initially arrested in Monaco, they were later released due to lack of evidence linking them to the crime.
The attack occurred at Rue Révérend Père Louis Frolla, where CCTV footage captured the victims returning home before the explosion, indicating a targeted attack. Monaco’s minister of state noted the suspect’s premeditated actions and escape towards Beausoleil following the incident.