Cambodian authorities in Preah Vihear province detained a member of an elite Thai military unit and a civilian travelling with him for questioning after they wandered 3 kilometres into Cambodian territory.

“We are awaiting the decision from the superior [on whether to let them go],’’ said a police officer in Choam Ksan district, where both have been held since October 19.

The officer said that one of the men was a member of Thailand’s “black clad” unit, a special forces group. Authorities confiscated hammocks, knives and personal items.

Major General Phat Sophen, chief of the Cambodian-Thai Border Relations office in Preah Vihear, confirmed the two had been sent to Choam Ksan.

Dam Yen, Choam Ksan police chief, told local media the men were hunting. He identified them as black clad unit member Thannam Paya and Vuth Undee.

Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs couldn’t be reached for comment.