SURIN, Aug 20 – Three Thai villagers in Thailand's northeastern border province of Surin were arrested by Cambodian authorities on charge of spying while they were hunting and collecting forest products along the border.

Families of two detainees, Sanong Wongchareon and Ling Pongphet, said the duo and another villager, Lan Sapsri, were arrested by Cambodian border patrol police in Kanna village of Sangkha district six days ago.

Accusing the three Thais of spying, the Cambodian authorities contacted their Thai counterpart at the Chong Jom border check-point, demanding fine and compensation in exchange for their releases. The amount of payment was not stated.

The detainees' families sought the government's assistance as Cambodian officials said they would hand over the three on Friday. (MCOT online news)