Just reading through the forum and came across this post!..
I was shocked to read....
"Hi fella, i hired a scooter for 7 years running and all you need is your driving license and passport, they will probably keep your passport until you give the bike back"
The only time I have ever handed my passport over to police was on a train journey from switzerland through italy to frnch riveara and as we were on a night sleeper the Italian police collected all passports for safety over night and returned them at the crack of dawn.
It is my understanding that you should never give anyone yr passport unless it is official?
regards,
Chrissy