Authorities are facing challenges in their efforts to capture a baboon that has been on the loose for six days in the Northcliff area of Johannesburg.

Northcliff Melville Times reports that, according to Bhaai Cassim, the secretary of the Johannesburg Sub-District Community Police Board, the situation has become increasingly complex due to an abundance of food and water sources – including streams, ponds, and gardens – which have made it difficult to lure the animal into traps.

He reports that half-eaten pet food left outside and fruit trees in gardens are providing additional sustenance for the baboon, further complicating trapping efforts. “Setting up traps poses a problem as food in the traps prove less than effective, when there is an abundance of food available.”

Cassim adds that locating the baboon has also proven to be a daunting task, as the animal has numerous hiding spots in the urban environment.

Its mobility has become a nightmare for capture teams, as the baboon is constantly on the move and seldom frequents the same locality. “A trap set up in one position may need to be moved if the baboon avoids the area,” Cassim notes. “Then, as is often the case, the baboon may decide to return to the area where the trap was previously set.”

He expresses concern that the baboon may injure itself, either crossing busy roads or getting into an altercation. “Our fear is an altercation between the baboon and guard dogs, which will result in serious injury, in which case animals may have to be put down.”

Cassim states that the baboon was last sighted this morning near a residence where a trap had been installed on Frederick Drive.

With the baboon still on the loose, authorities continue working to ensure its safe return.

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