Extra Police have been drafted in to combat Hallowe'en hooligans.

Missile-throwing pranksters have already forced bus drivers to go off the road on Monday.

Drivers have refused to start any trips after 6.15 p.m. "Bus operators felt hooligans were a danger to themselves and their passengers,'' explained Public Transportation Board director Mr. Herman Basden. "I reluctantly accepted their decision since I can understand the stress they are under.'' Mr. Basden said drivers were alarmed as well about the increased use of firearms.

The Education Ministry has also moved to tackle Hallowe'en hooliganism.

Chief Education Officer Mr. Dean Furbert pointed out school principals had been asked to supervise kids more closely.

They had been told to ensure children went back home after leaving school, he said.

Mr. Furbert, who met with Mr. Basden about the problems, also revealed youngsters found guilty of hooliganism had been punished.

Police yesterday said they had dealt with a number of incidents -- none serious so far.

The worst involved an apple striking a passenger on a bus.

"Extra Police patrols will be on duty to monitor any incidents which may occur,'' said Police spokeswoman Sgt. Roseanda Jones.

She added: "We are appealing to the public to exercise caution and common sense over Hallowe'en night in the hope of reducing the number of incidents that have marred previous years.

"We are asking parents in particular to discourage their young adults from taking part in any `pranks' which could ultimately result in someone being seriously hurt or arrested.

"We are urging young people to remember that, what may seem funny to one person could result in injuries to another. Respect people's property and their decision to celebrate Hallowe'en.'' Sgt. Jones stressed: "Behaviour such as throwing objects at traffic may seem like a practical joke but this can be very dangerous to the rider or driver of vehicles.'' Mr. Basden said the PTB had a bad experience last year when rock-throwing kids smashed windows and windscreens of two buses full of passengers.

In addition, several months ago a metal file was hurled at a bus. "Drivers quite understandably have become quite nervous, and in recent weeks there have been a number of incidents.

"Eggs and apples have been thrown at buses, but thanks to the prompt action of the Department of Education last week this kind of behaviour appears to have been nipped in the bud.'' Mr. Basden said drivers had written to him on Bermuda Industrial Union paper, revealing their decision not to work on Monday evening.

"The cut-off point is 6.15 p.m. After that time they won't make any more journeys,'' he said.

The 6.20 p.m. Washington Terminal-Glebe Road trip would probably still go ahead, however.

"The drivers have agreed to that,'' said Mr. Basden.