“At approximately 1pm on Wednesday November 6, 2024, the Yemassee Police Department received an alert from Alpha Genesis regarding the escape of numerous Rhesus Macaque primates from their enclosures at the Yemassee facility located at 95 Castle Hall Rd, Yemassee SC. The number has since been confirmed to be 43. The primates are described as very young females weighing approximately 6-7lbs, the animals have never been used for testing due to their young age and size.”
“A spokesperson from Alpha Genesis can confirm these animals are too young to carry disease. The Yemassee Police Department, in collaboration with Alpha Genesis, have initiated search teams to help locate the escaped primates. Alpha Genesis currently have eyes on the primates and are working to entice them with food. The public is advised to avoid the area as these animals are described at skittish and any additional noise or movement could hinder their safe capture.”
“Residents are urged to keep their doors and windows securely closed and to report any sightings immediately by dialing 911. Please do not attempt to approach these animals under any circumstances,” says the Yemassee, South Carolina Police Department in a press release.