A Ukrainian woman wanted by authorities in Monaco over a bombing that allegedly targeted a Ukrainian business tycoon has been found dead in Kyiv, with Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) announcing the arrest of two suspects in connection with her killing.
The SBU said on Tuesday that the body of Anastasiia Berezovska, who had been the subject of an Interpol Red Notice, was discovered during an investigation into her disappearance.
According to the agency, an officer serving with Ukraine’s military intelligence confessed to killing Berezovska with the assistance of a former law enforcement officer. Investigators said the officer claimed he acted independently without informing his superiors.
Linked to Monaco Bomb Attack
Berezovska had been sought by Monaco authorities following a bomb attack on June 29 that reportedly targeted Ukrainian businessman Vadym Yermolaiev, who has been linked to Russia.
The explosion injured three people, including a child, and sent shockwaves through Monaco, the wealthy Mediterranean principality known for its luxury lifestyle, royal family and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Prince Albert II condemned the blast as an “odious act” and said security services had been fully mobilised in response.
Interpol Issued Red Notice
Interpol had identified the 39-year-old Berezovska as the main suspect and issued a Red Notice seeking her arrest on charges including attempted murder, placing an explosive device in a public place with criminal intent and criminal conspiracy.
The international police agency said the Red Notice would remain active until Monaco formally requested its withdrawal.
Investigation Leads to Murder Suspects
The SBU said investigators began focusing on the two detained men after uncovering repeated cryptocurrency transfers and bank transactions linked to Berezovska.
During searches, authorities also discovered what they described as a basement resembling a torture chamber at the home of the former law enforcement officer.
Investigators located Berezovska’s body while reconstructing the alleged crime based on testimony from one of the suspects. According to the SBU, she had suffered gunshot wounds to the head, and spent pistol casings were recovered from the scene.
Both suspects have been detained on suspicion of premeditated murder.
The SBU said it has shared all available evidence with investigators in Monaco and is continuing efforts to identify those responsible for planning and organising the attempted assassination of Yermolaiev in Monaco.