A Cuban resident in South Carolina raised an alarm on TikTok about the escape of between 40 and 43 monkeys from a lab in the state, warning the local population of the potential health and safety risks these animals could pose while at large.
In the video, the user @cubitabella09, known on the platform, explained that authorities are advising residents in the area to keep their windows closed and, if they encounter any of these monkeys, to refrain from attempting to touch or feed them and to immediately call emergency number 911.
"The authorities are advising to keep windows closed and, if you encounter any of these monkeys, to call 911. 'Do not approach them, do not try to touch them, do not feed them, just call 911,' the woman stated."
The Cuban also pointed out that the possible cause of the escape was a lapse by a newly hired security guard, who apparently forgot to close the doors of the enclosure where the animals were housed. "Remember that they could be sick; call 911 urgently if you come across any of these monkeys," she reiterated.
What happened:
Last Wednesday, a group of 43 rhesus macaques escaped from a research center in Yemassee, South Carolina, causing concern among residents and prompting local authorities to urge the public to close doors and windows as a precaution.
Gregory Alexander, the chief of police in Yemassee, stated that the monkeys are young, small, and have not been subjected to laboratory testing.
"They are not infected with any disease. They are harmless and a bit skittish," the officer explained Thursday morning in response to the concerns of the local residents.
The escape occurred when an employee at Alpha Genesis, the company responsible for the animals, did not properly secure the enclosure housing the primates.
The monkeys, all females weighing around 3 kilograms, managed to escape from the facility, located about a mile from downtown Yemassee.
Although Alpha Genesis usually manages minor escapes within its facilities, on this occasion, the monkeys managed to leave the complex. The company has implemented various measures to recapture them, including the use of traps and thermal imaging cameras.
Alexander emphasized that the population is not in significant danger, but he advised those living in nearby areas to remain calm and follow safety guidelines.
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