“We are working on a legislation which will debar fugitives from taking shelter in state’s hotels,” Director General of Police S Brar told reporters after a criminal, Bhagat, was taken to Mumbai from a Goa hotel on yesterday.

Goa police were unaware when Mumbai police arrested Hitesh Bhagat from a posh hotel situated next to the state police headquarters. Bhagat was wanted in connection with the alleged murder of matka king Suresh Bhagat.

None of the Goa police officials including the public relation office was aware of the arrest.

“We have asked guest houses, hotels, lodges and other rental places to keep a detail record of guests,” the DGP said.

Brar said the legislation would be enacted before next tourist season.

Goa has 2,322 registered hotels including 83 heritage and star hotels. The state has recently earned a bad reputation after many criminals were found taking shelter here.

“We require hoteliers and people in general to be sensitised of the issue. With their support, the legislation won’t solve the problem,” Brar said.