43 primates are on the loose in the South Carolina city after escaping from a research lab

At least 43 primates were on the loose in a South Carolina city on Thursday, where authorities “strongly advised” residents to keep their doors and windows locked after the animals escaped from a research laboratory.

“No one has been arrested at this time,” Yemassee police said in a statement on its Facebook page.

According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, traps were placed around the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, where the rhesus monkeys escaped en masse on Wednesday around 1 p.m. ET.

Yemassee police officers were using thermal imaging cameras to search for the furry fugitives, which can grow up to 20 inches long and weigh 30 pounds, according to the sheriff’s office.

“Residents are strongly encouraged to securely lock doors and windows to prevent these animals from entering their homes,” the sheriff’s office said. “If you see any of the escaped animals, contact 911 immediately and do not approach them.”

Police said they are working with staff from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center to find the fugitives.

“We want to reassure the community that there are no health risks associated with these animals,” police said.

Representatives of the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center could not immediately be contacted for comment.

According to its website, Alpha Genesis offers “the highest quality non-human primate products and bioresearch services worldwide,” including serum, plasma, whole blood and tissue samples.