Police in the southern Indian state of Kerala have arrested three people for allegedly murdering two women in a suspected case of human sacrifice, BBC News reported.

The remains of the women, who were allegedly murdered months apart, were found on Tuesday.

Police say the accused—a couple and another man—"severely tortured" the victims before killing them.

They say they have confessed to the crime and an investigation is underway.

The accused haven't commented yet on the allegations as they are in police custody.

The gruesome case has made national headlines and shocked the people of Kerala—considered one of India's most progressive states.

Police say the accused are Bhagaval Singh—an ayurvedic "healer"—his wife Laila, and Mohammed Shafi, an "occult practitioner" from Idukki district.

Cochin Police Commissioner CH Nagaraju said the murders took place over four months and were suspected to be part of a ritual done for "financial benefits".

"Black magic" is still practiced in some parts of India—people believe the rituals could bring prosperity, help childless women bear children, cure illnesses, and even produce more rainfall.