A rise in physical attacks on bus operators over the last two weeks has raised concern from the transport minister, Michael Fahy.

“Steps will have to be taken” to protect drivers, Senator Fahy said, adding: “We will prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.”

Penalties on conviction include fines as high as $2,200.

Counterfeit bus passes have recently been confiscated from passengers, he said, with the police now investigating.

“Anyone found guilty of forging Government media will be brought before the courts and prosecuted.”

Fines for faking passes can run as high as $1,500.