Chimpanzee rescued from drug trafficker starts new life in Brazil

(CBS, KYMA/KECY) - Yoko, a 38-year-old chimpanzee who lived alone in captivity in Colombia, started his journey to Brazil Sunday, where he joined 50 rescued primates at a sanctuary, the Colombian Aerospace Force said.

Once owned by a drug trafficker, Yoko spent the last seven years at Bioparque Ukumari after being rescued from dire conditions, local media said.

After a two-day trip, Yoko arrived at the Great Primate Sanctuary in Sorocaba on Monday.

His story gained attention in July 2023 when his companions, Pancho and Chita, were shot and killed after escaping the zoo, said a Brazilian NGO protecting apes.