For days, he remained out of sight as police teams chased leads across districts.

But the search came to an abrupt end on Monday when investigators tracked Trinamool Congress leader Jahangir Khan to the India-Nepal border and arrested him in connection with an extortion case, delivering a breakthrough in a politically sensitive probe.

The dramatic arrest capped an intensive manhunt launched after multiple criminal cases were registered against Khan and his associates.

According to police, the influential South 24 Parganas leader had allegedly been evading law enforcement agencies while investigators pursued fresh leads into allegations ranging from extortion and intimidation to violence.

Acting on intelligence inputs and surveillance-based tracking, West Bengal Police traced Khan's movements to north Bengal, where he was eventually detained near the India-Nepal border during a coordinated operation.

Officials said he would now be produced before a court and questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.

Investigators believe Khan's arrest could unlock crucial details in a series of complaints that have surfaced from the Falta area, where he has long wielded significant political influence.

Residents and political opponents have accused him and his associates of operating through fear and intimidation, allegations that are now under detailed scrutiny.

The arrest comes weeks after police tightened the noose around Khan's inner circle.

Among those arrested earlier was Israfil Chakdar, a gram panchayat chief considered one of Khan's close associates, who was also booked in cases linked to alleged extortion and intimidation.

Sources involved in the probe suspect that the cases may be interconnected and are examining whether a wider network was involved in the alleged offences.

Investigators have not ruled out further arrests as they continue to analyse evidence and statements gathered so far.

The developments have once again thrown the spotlight on Falta, a constituency that has witnessed repeated political flashpoints and allegations of violence in recent months.

The controversy intensified after several complaints surfaced over alleged coercion and strong-arm tactics during the election period.

Facing mounting legal pressure, Khan had earlier moved the Calcutta High Court seeking protection from coercive action, claiming that multiple criminal cases had been filed against him.

While the legal battle continues, his arrest near the Nepal border marks the most significant development yet in the investigation.