Indianapolis police launched a search for the elusive monkey named Momo after he managed to escape from his owner's home on the city's east side. The escape was first reported on Wednesday evening, prompting the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) to immediately spring into action and launch search efforts to track down the mischievous primate.

Momo's owner, who had experienced a previous escape by the monkey in July, reached out to the community for help through a local lost-and-found Facebook group. Heartwarming photos were shared, showcasing Momo carrying a stuffed animal and celebrating holidays with his owner. Authorities warned residents to not approach the patas monkey, known for being the fastest primate on Earth, capable of reaching speeds up to 34 mph, according to Southwick's Zoo in Massachusetts.

Momo was first sighted in the town on Wednesday night in the 10000 block of Gate Dr. IMPD issued a follow-up post, urging people to avoid approaching him. Despite his lightning-fast speed, authorities eventually caught up with Momo on Thursday afternoon. The monkey had broken into a vacant home, and police were able to trap him inside by shutting the doors. When Momo moved to a vacant bathroom, authorities closed the door, effectively confining him.

With the assistance of the owner's brother, Momo was coaxed out of the home and captured safely. IMPD celebrated the successful capture in a social media post, expressing their relief and gratitude for the community's assistance.

Following his capture, Momo was handed over to Indianapolis' Animal Care Services, who then transferred him to the Indianapolis Zoo. Katie Trennepohl, the deputy director of Indianapolis Animal Care Services, stated that although a permit is not required in Marion County to own such an animal, Momo will be held under the advice of the county's prosecutor's office. They will work alongside Animal Care Services to determine whether Momo will be returned to his owner.

Throughout the search for Momo, Indianapolis officials urged residents to exercise caution and avoid approaching the monkey. There were reports of minor injuries, although it was not confirmed if they were from bites. Several witnesses shared their encounters with the rogue primate, including a resident named Bonnie Wright, who described a tense encounter where Momo pinned her against her garage door until she could safely enter her house.

This is not the first time Momo has escaped, as his owner had previously posted about a similar incident in July. The monkey had gotten loose in the early hours of the morning on July 10.

The Indianapolis community, along with law enforcement and animal control services, came together to ensure the safe capture of Momo, emphasizing the importance of responsible ownership and the need to assess whether exotic animals should be kept as pets.