The staff expressed deep anxiety over how to handle the escalating standoff safely. They feared that using chemical sedatives on the protective troop would induce severe panic, potentially harming Lola or worsening her fragile physical condition. Furthermore, causing a chaotic disruption within the exhibit could easily leak to the public, threatening their fragile job security and triggering severe administrative fallout.
Gerard validated their concerns, stressing that physical force or heavy tranquilization should be avoided entirely. He explained that gaining access required patience, methodical planning, and a deep understanding of natural primate behavior. By working with the animals’ established social structures rather than against them, they could gently dismantle the protective barrier without causing unnecessary distress or dangerous confrontation.