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The future of three white-faced capuchin monkeys recently captured in Stony Hill, St Andrew, remains uncertain, as authorities continue to assess the best course of action for the non-native animals.

The monkeys were caught during a multi-agency operation involving the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), the Veterinary Services Division, the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Hope Zoo, and the Jamaica Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, after they were spotted in the community. After initially reporting that only two of the monkeys had been captured, NEPA confirmed last night that the third had also been found.

Anthony McKenzie, director of environmental management and conservation at NEPA, told THE STAR that a final determination will be made by the Veterinary Services Division. He explained that if the animals are healthy and pose no disease threat, they could be allowed to remain in the country. However, that is not guaranteed.

"If it is found that they have diseases, the division has the technical competence to treat them. So if they make the decision that they can be treated, I suppose they can remain."

He noted, however, that if the animals are classified as endangered species protected under international treaties, they may need to be returned to their country of origin.

"Usually, if they are species that are endangered and protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, then in those circumstances the country might want them back," he added.

The white-faced capuchin monkey is a non-native species to Jamaica and is considered a potential threat to the island's ecosystems, agriculture, and public health.

"All three monkeys will be quarantined upon capture while a decision is being made about the next course of action," NEPA said in a statement on Tuesday.

Authorities have confirmed that the monkeys are a species native to Central and South America but not to Jamaica. Their presence raises serious concerns about ecological disruption, threats to local agriculture, and potential public health risks.