Visakhapatnam, Jun 20 (IANS): Eight farmers were injured when a bear attacked them in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam district on Monday.

The incident occurred near Vajrapukotturu town of the district. The condition of six of the injured is stated to be critical.

The bear attacked farmers working in cashew and coconut plantations between Kidisingi and Vajrapukotturu.

Ten cattle were also injured in the bear attack. Eye witnesses said the bear created havoc in the area as it attacked farmers and cattle.

Six of the injured were shifted to Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Srikakulam.

The incident created a scare among people in the area. Police and forest officials rushed to the village. They spoke to the local people and gathered details of the incident.

The forest officials began efforts to trace and catch the bear. Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Seediri Appalarju spoke to officials and directed them to ensure best possible treatment to the injured.

He also asked forest officials to take immediate steps to catch the bear.