A Thai woman appeared in a Myanmar court on Tuesday 23 June 2026, in an immigration-related charge linked to allegations that she killed her ex-husband, a United States diplomat, according to an attorney familiar with the case. The hearing marks the second stage of proceedings in the case being heard in Yangon.
Get today's headlines by email 
Pavinee Supasirivisan is also charged with murder over the May killing of the diplomat, whose identity has not been released by authorities. She is first being tried on an immigration offence under Myanmar’s immigration code, which applies to foreign nationals who commit crimes in the country.
The second hearing was held at Kamayut Township Court, where three prosecution witnesses, including immigration officers, gave testimony. The attorney, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to concerns about Myanmar’s military-run government, said Pavinee had two legal representatives present, although it was not clear whether she had entered a plea.
The immigration charge carries a possible sentence ranging from six months to five years in prison. The separate murder charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to the death penalty. It is not yet known when the murder trial will begin or how long the immigration proceedings will last.
The case comes amid Myanmar’s continued political crisis following the 2021 military seizure of power from the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Since the coup, the country has seen widespread unrest and a growing civil conflict, while media access to courts and official proceedings remains heavily restricted.
Authorities have declined to comment on the case. Police investigating the incident, the prison where the suspect is believed to be held, and the court itself have all refused to provide details. Journalists are not allowed to attend court hearings, limiting public information about the proceedings.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed it has provided consular assistance to Pavinee but has declined to release further information. The United States State Department has confirmed the diplomat’s death but has not disclosed the individual’s name or additional details.
Khaosod reported that the diplomat was found dead with stab wounds to the head and neck on May 11 at the Sakura Residence & Hotel in Yangon, a facility frequently used by diplomats, business travellers and international visitors. It is located about 1.5 kilometres from the United States Embassy in the city.
Picture courtesy of Khaosod
Related story
Thai-woman-held-after-US-diplomat-found-dead-in-Myanmar
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 25 June 2026