43 Monkeys Escape Research Facility In Yemassee, South Carolina
The Yemassee Police Department says the "very young females" have never been used for testing, adding that they are too young to carry any diseases.
UNITED STATES - 43 rhesus macaque monkeys have escaped a research facility in Alpha Genesis facility in South Carolina, according to the Yemassee Police Department which says the "very young females" have never been used for testing, adding that they are too young to carry any diseases.
According to a spokesperson for Alpha Genesis, the 43 rhesus macaques who escaped are described as very young females, weighing about 6-7 pounds, and have never been used for testing due to their young age and size and are too young to carry disease.
According to the research facility’s website, "Alpha Genesis Inc. provides the highest quality nonhuman primate products and bio-research services world-wide. With a client base that extends across North America, Europe, and Asia, we are dedicated to providing only the best and most cost-effective primate research and development support to the scientific community".
According to the police, "Alpha Genesis currently have eyes on the primates and are working to entice them with food".
Yemassee Sheriff’s Department released a statement that said, "Residents are strongly advised to keep doors and windows secured to prevent these animals from entering homes".
The company uses the monkeys to carry out clinical trials for treatments such as brain disease disorders.