There are dozens of them. Kids take them out on leads, and even carry baby monkeys around in nappies. But these animals can be very dangerous indeed. Imported illegally through Spain from Gibraltar, Morocco or Algeria, the Barbary apes are known for their powerful limbs, sharp teeth and short tempers.
Veterinary experts say they can be turned into frightening and effective weapons.
Removed from their natural habitat, they can become highly aggressive. They bite, and their favoured method of attack is to hurl themselves at people's heads. Police believe as many as 500 Barbary apes may have been smuggled into France in the past two years. Bought for about 30 each by youngsters visiting their families in north Africa, they change hands on the council estates around Paris for as much as 300. We've heard of monkey-fights being run in tower block basements.