By Dean Murray via SWNS
The public are being told to stay alert after 43 monkeys escaped a test facility.
In a scene reminiscent of a “Planet of the Apes” film, the rhesus macaques broke free from their enclosure at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, South Carolina on Wednesday (6 Nov).
Yemassee Police Department reported on Thursday: “Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard told CBS earlier today the 43 primates escaped after a caretaker failed to secure doors.”
The police said the escapees are believed to be in the wooded region surrounding the facility.
They said: “We urge anyone who sights or encounters one of these animals to contact 911 immediately and to refrain from approaching or interacting with them.
“These animals are highly sensitive and easily startled, we recommend that the public to avoid the area to prevent frightening them further.
“The staff at Alpha Genesis are currently attempting to entice the animals back using food in order to ensure their safe capture.”
Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office said: “According to a spokesperson for Alpha Genesis, the 43 rhesus macaque who escaped are described as very young females, weighing about 6-7 pounds. The monkeys have never been used for testing due to their young age and size and are too young to carry disease.”
People have taken to social media to comment on the event.
On Facebook, Joyce Chastonay referenced the 2011 film Rise of the Planet of the Apes by noting “I saw a movie about this one time. Hint look for the lead one his name is Ceaser,” referring to the highly-intelligent leader of the apes.
