43 monkeys escaped in South Carolina

43 rhesus macaques escaped in South Carolina - police assure that the animals are harmless, but ask to keep the doors closed.

43 rhesus macaques escaped from the Alpha Genesis research center in Yemassey, South Carolina, due to the negligence of a new employee who did not lock the enclosure with primates, reports AR.

Yemassey Police Chief Gregory Alexander noted that "the risk is minimal," because the animals do not carry dangerous diseases and behave peacefully, although they may be frightened. So police urge residents to keep doors and windows closed and not try to come into contact with the monkeys.

The police department also said in a statement that Alpha Genesis staff are tracking the primates and trying to lure them back into their enclosures with food. Residents are advised to report any monkey encounters by calling 911.