A GANG of monkeys are on the loose after a Planet of the Apes-style breakout from a high-security research lab.
The horde of 43 primates are feared to be running free in Yemassee, South Carolina.
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It is the THIRD time they have broken out in the last ten years.
The daring escape has led to police warnings to residents to secure their doors and windows.
They have “strongly advised” the community to bunker down, with fears of attacks.
The Rhesus Macaqus got free from the Alpha Genesis primate research facility at 1pm on Wednesday.
It has eerie similarities to the break out in the Planet of the Apes film franchise.
It also happened in the 28 Days Later movie, which released a rabid killer virus into society.
The monkeys are free in a town around 26 miles away from Beaufort.
The gang also broke out in incidents in 2014 and 2016.
In 2016, 19 primates got loose and were captured after six hours of freedom.
And in 2014, 26 monkeys escaped, before being caught.
The Yemassee Police Department released a statement over the incident.
Cops have set up traps and are using to thermal imagery cameras to lure them in with food.
“We received an alert from Alpha Genesis regarding the escape of numerous Rhesus Macaque primates from their enclosures,” it read.
“The number has since been confirmed to be 43.
What is a Rhesus Macaque?
Rhesus monkeys are highly vivacious and active animals.
They live in groups of 20 to 200.
This is both on the ground or in trees depending on the habitat.
They spend most of the day with foraging and eating.
Rhesus monkeys run on the ground on all fours.
They are good climbers and jumpers.
“The primates are described as very young females weighing approximately 6-7lbs,
“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.”
Alpha Genesis claims the monkeys have yet to be used for testing.
It is also understood they are too young to carry any diseases that may harm humans.
The company is believed to conduct research for government, university and private clients.
They are understood to have around 5,000 monkeys at the facility.
