Mexican farmers protest�_�bigtime

As authorities arrived on the scene, the protesters attacked the riot-gear clad police with machetes, metal poles and sticks, Jimenez said.

Mexico State Attorney General Alfonso Navarrete said six police agents and 10 protesters were injured. He said one officer was in critical condition with a knife wound to chest.

Hours later, a second group of protesters blocked major highways around San Salvador Atenco, 10 miles to the south, again battling with police. Navarrete said the protesters took four officers hostage.