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Jun 23, 2026 Major2
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Thai Woman Faces Immigration Trial in Myanmar Over Death of US Diplomat
A Thai woman, Pavinee Supasirivisan, appeared in a Myanmar court on Tuesday for trial on an immigration charge linked to allegations that she killed her ex-husband, a U.S. diplomat. The diplomat was found stabbed to death in a Yangon hotel in May. Pavinee also faces a separate murder charge that could carry a sentence of up to 10 years or the death penalty.
Quick Facts
Who
Pavinee Supasirivisan
What
Immigration trial
When
Tuesday (trial date)
Where
Myanmar
- Immigration trial
- murder charge
- diplomat's death
- court hearing with witnesses
- consular assistance provided
A Thai woman appeared in a Myanmar court on Tuesday to face trial on an immigration-related charge linked to allegations that she killed her ex-husband, a U.S. diplomat, according to an attorney familiar with the case.
Pavinee Supasirivisan is charged with violating Myanmar's immigration code, which applies to any foreign national who commits a crime in the country. She is also charged with murder for the death of the diplomat in May. The diplomat's identity has not been disclosed. The immigration charge is being tried first and carries a sentence of six months to five years, while the murder charge could result in a prison term of up to 10 years or the death penalty.
Three prosecution witnesses, including immigration officers, testified during the second hearing at Kamayut Township Court, according to the attorney, who spoke on condition of anonymity to avoid possible repercussions from Myanmar's military-run government. The attorney said Pavinee had two legal representatives in court, but it was not clear whether she had entered a plea. An official from Kamayut township's immigration and population department confirmed the testimony but declined to provide further details.
The diplomat was found dead with stab wounds to the head and neck on May 11 at the Sakura Residence & Hotel, a facility popular with diplomats and international visitors located about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from the U.S. Embassy in Yangon. The U.S. State Department confirmed the death but refused to release further information, including the diplomat's name.
Thailand's Foreign Ministry has confirmed it has provided consular assistance to the suspect. Authorities in Myanmar, including the investigating police, the prison where the suspect is believed to be held, and the court, have all refused to comment. Journalists are not allowed into court proceedings. The case unfolds against the backdrop of Myanmar's civil war, which began after the military seized power from democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021.
Topics
Why This Matters
This case highlights the precarious legal situation for foreigners in Myanmar under the military regime, where dual charges (immigration and murder) can lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty. It also underscores the limited transparency and due process in Myanmar's courts, as journalists are barred from proceedings and authorities refuse to comment. The involvement of a U.S. diplomat's death has potential diplomatic ramifications, though the State Department has withheld the victim's identity, reflecting the sensitivity of the case amid ongoing civil conflict.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2021
WireMyanmar military seizes power from Aung San Suu Kyi
May 11, 2026
WireU.S. diplomat found stabbed to death at Sakura Residence & Hotel
Jun 23, 2026
WireSecond court hearing for Pavinee Supasirivisan on immigration charge