A powerful explosion that ripped through a residential building in the tiny Mediterranean principality of Monaco has left three people injured, two in critical condition, according to updates from French media outlets. The incident unfolded at approximately 21:00 local time, equal to 19:00 GMT, on Rue Révérend Père Louis Frolla, a street located just steps from Monaco’s shared border with France. Initial reports indicate the blast was triggered by an explosive device hidden inside a bag that was abandoned outside the multi-unit residential building.
In an official statement to the Agence France-Presse news agency, Christophe Mirmand, Monaco’s Minister of State and head of the national government, confirmed that authorities are treating the incident as a deliberate act of violence. Mirmand stated that preliminary forensic examinations suggest the device was packed with bolts and pellets, components designed to maximize shrapnel damage and harm to bystanders. He emphasized that the event is unprecedented in Monaco’s modern history, noting “This is the first time in history, to my knowledge, that such an act has taken place in the principality.”
Within minutes of the blast, local law enforcement officers, bomb disposal units, and emergency medical response teams were deployed to the cordoned-off scene. Rescue operations are ongoing, with investigators currently working to piece together details of the attack, identify any potential suspects, and confirm the exact motive behind the explosion. Border crossings between Monaco and France have been increased security checks as a precaution, though no official lockdown or travel restrictions have been announced as of the latest updates.