Kolkata

Police have arrested eight individuals in connection with an alleged attempt to force entry into the Falta police station in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district and facilitate the release of jailed Trinamool Congress leader Jahangir Khan. Investigators have also identified Khan's wife as the alleged key planner behind the operation, a senior police official said on Wednesday.

According to police, intelligence inputs received ahead of a protest programme indicated that a section of demonstrators intended to attack the police station and free Khan from custody. In response, authorities deployed additional police personnel and central security forces in the area to prevent any disturbance.

"We had prior information about plans by certain individuals to target the police station during the demonstration and attempt to secure the accused's release. Adequate preventive arrangements were put in place, and the situation was brought under control before any such incident could occur," the officer said.

Supporters of Khan assembled in large numbers in the Shatol Kolsa area of Falta and organised a protest before marching towards the local police station.

Investigators alleged that some participants in the demonstration were preparing to create unrest and pressure authorities into releasing Khan, who is currently lodged in judicial custody.

Police claimed that Khan's wife had been actively mobilising supporters since Monday and was instrumental in coordinating the protest. Based on evidence gathered during the investigation, an FIR has been lodged against her.

Officials said several complaints concerning her role in the events have emerged during the inquiry and further legal action, including possible arrest, remains under consideration depending on the findings of the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, videos circulating on social media appeared to show protesters running from police action and some individuals jumping into nearby water bodies while attempting to evade security personnel.

Khan, who reportedly adopted the nickname "Pushpa" after the popular Telugu film character portrayed by actor Allu Arjun, was arrested near the India-Nepal border in North Bengal on June 8. He faces multiple charges, including allegations of extortion and other criminal offences.

Since his arrest, police have launched a series of operations in the Falta region aimed at dismantling what they describe as his criminal network and restoring normalcy in the area.

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Authorities said investigations are continuing and indicated that additional arrests may follow as more evidence emerges.