Two guards died July 17 near the mine , apparently by bears . Groups of bears have been reported in the region since the deaths , and many people have refused to work at the mine , saying they are afraid . Thousands of bears live in other parts of Crimean Peninsula in eastern Russia . Russia says it may be necessary to shoot some bears to protect people . Experts say salmon shortage is bringing bears into closer contact with humans .
Two guards died July 17 near the mine , apparently by bears . Thousands of bears live in other parts of Crimean Peninsula in eastern Russia . Russia says it may be necessary to shoot some bears to protect people . Experts say salmon shortage is bringing bears into closer contact with humans .