Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: A young man was hacked to death in broad daylight at Palkulangara here on Sunday, allegedly by his neighbour, following a long-standing personal feud.

The victim has been identified as Vishakh, while the accused is Pradeep, who is currently absconding.

According to local residents, the two had been involved in a personal rivalry for some time. Vishakh had allegedly assaulted Pradeep in the past, following which he was jailed. Despite that, tensions between the two reportedly continued, prompting Vishakh to shift his residence to Malayinkeezhu.

On Sunday afternoon, Vishakh had returned to his house in Palkulangara for lunch when Pradeep allegedly attacked him with a machete. Vishakh sustained fatal injuries and died on the spot.

The accused fled the scene immediately after the attack. Police have launched a search operation to trace and arrest him. Further investigation is underway.