Kollam (Kerala) | A mahout has allegedly been stabbed to death following a dispute among friends at Thrikkadavoor here, police said on Friday.

The deceased was identified as Raju, a native of Palkulangara, who worked as a mahout at the Thrikkadavoor temple.

According to police, the incident occurred around 9.30 pm on Thursday when the first accused, Syam of Thrikkadavoor, met Raju and his friend Naveenkumar at Kuthirakkadavu.

Police said a quarrel broke out between Syam and Naveenkumar while they were allegedly under the influence of liquor.

Syam later called his friend, Mahesh, and the two allegedly attacked Raju and Naveenkumar.

During the assault, Syam allegedly stabbed Raju with a knife, police said.

Raju was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

The Anchalummoodu police have registered a case of murder and arrested Mahesh. A search is underway to trace the prime accused, Syam, officials said.