Monkeys fight back as would-be thieves try to steal them from zoo
Terrified squirrel monkeys have fought back against would-be thieves who broke into their enclosure overnight in attempt to snatch them, a Wellington Zoo spokesperson has revealed.
Some of the 12 monkeys inside the enclosure were injured as a result of the attempted abduction which occurred about 9am on Saturday, local time, with one thought to have been stolen later found hiding.
Two were found in a habitat with another species, which could easily have ended in disaster, zoo staff said.
Staff were concerned by the would-be thieves' sophistication as bolt cutters were used to open a door into the Golden Lion Tamarins area and then entered the squirrel monkey enclosure.
"To bring tools like bolt cutters is something that we think is quite pre-meditated," Wellington Zoo Trust Karen Fifield told reporters at a press conference Saturday afternoon.
It was initially thought one monkey had been stolen and zoo staff issued a plea for her return on Saturday morning.
Fortunately, the frightened animal was found hiding in a nearby habitat, a zoo spokesperson confirmed about 12.20pm.
"We had one that we thought was missing but she was hiding, obviously very scared."
‘Most likely’ cause of 11-year-old girl’s electrocution identified
Cancer-stricken NSW teenager 'not sick enough' for Centrelink
Weight-lifter reveals the family tragedy which pushed her to win gold
The injuries the animals sustained were evidence someone tried to snatch them, Ms Fifield said.
One monkey sustained a haemotoma on its elbow, and others received scratch mark as they tried to fend off the intruder.
It is likely that the intruders would have some evidence of scratches or bites themselves.
"The monkeys would have definitely bitten the alleged offenders... They would have monkey bites for sure," Ms Fifield said.
New Zealand Police are investigating the break-in, and the zoo will also hold its own investigation.
"Staff have been at the zoo today carrying out a scene examination," a spokeswoman said in a statement.
Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious or has information which could assist the investigation is asked to call Wellington Police on 04 381 2000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
