Thrissur, Kerala: Two Malayali women were killed in the United States, allegedly by another Malayali woman who was a friend of the victims. The incident took place in Milpitas, California, on Saturday.

The deceased have been identified as Anjana, 35, a native of Mudikkode, Thrissur, and Ann, a native of Chingavanam in Kottayam. Their friend Anila has been taken into police custody in connection with the incident.

Anjana's husband is Vijeesh, a native of Vilangannoor, and the couple have a daughter, Vamika.

According to preliminary information, Anila allegedly lured Anjana downstairs from their apartment and killed her by hitting her with a car. The car then fled the scene without stopping, and Vijeesh reportedly recognised the vehicle.

Vijeesh immediately informed Jacob, the husband of their mutual friend Ann. After failing to reach Ann by phone, Jacob went to the apartment, where he reportedly found her dead with stab injuries.

Anjana's family said the three women were close friends. The motive behind the killings remains unclear. Anjana and Vijeesh have been working in California for the past eight years.