Six Rhesus Monkeys Escape Enclosure in Witten, One Recaptured

"Anyone who sees a monkey in their garden can contact the police or fire department," the police spokesperson said. The statement was broadcast by regional outlet WDR 2 Ruhrgebiet during its local news segment.

The monkeys are believed to be in the vicinity of the main cemetery and surrounding residential areas. Officers have increased patrols and are coordinating with the animals' owner to locate the group.

About Rhesus Macaques

Rhesus macaques are medium-sized primates native to South and Southeast Asia. They are highly adaptable and known for their intelligence, which can make capture efforts challenging.

Local authorities have not indicated any immediate danger to the public, but they advise against feeding or attempting to interact with the monkeys. The animals may become defensive if they feel threatened.

The owner of the monkeys has been cooperating with the police and fire department. No injuries to humans or animals have been reported so far.

Ongoing Search

The escape has drawn attention to the conditions under which the animals were kept. The 20 macaques had been brought to Witten from another location due to animal welfare concerns, though officials have not disclosed the previous site.

Search efforts are expected to continue through the night and into Friday. Police have set up a dedicated hotline for sightings and are using social media to update the public.

This is not the first instance of exotic animals escaping in Germany. In 2024, two kangaroos briefly hopped free from a wildlife park in Lower Saxony before being safely returned.

The recaptured monkey is being examined by a veterinarian. Its condition will help inform the strategy for safely recovering the remaining five animals.