A Thai woman appeared in a Myanmar court on Tuesday for her trial on an immigration-related charge, a case linked to allegations she killed her ex-husband, who was a U.S. diplomat. The diplomat's identity has not been publicly released.
The woman, identified as Pavinee Supasirivisan, is also charged with murder in connection with the May killing. However, her trial is proceeding first on the charge of violating Myanmar's immigration code, which applies to foreign nationals who commit crimes within the country. This charge carries a potential sentence of six months to five years in prison.
During the hearing at Kamayut Township Court, three prosecution witnesses, including immigration officers, testified. This was the second session of her trial. It remains unclear if Supasirivisan has entered a plea. She was represented by two legal counsel.
An official from the Kamayut township's immigration and population department confirmed that witnesses testified but declined to provide further details, speaking anonymously as they were not authorized to speak to the press. The duration of the trial and the timeline for the murder charge proceedings are unknown. The murder charge carries a potential sentence ranging from 10 years imprisonment to the death penalty.
The U.S. State Department has confirmed the diplomat's death but has declined to provide additional information, including the diplomat's name. Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated it is providing consular assistance to Supasirivisan but has not released further details.
The diplomat was found dead on May 11 at the Sakura Residence & Hotel, a location frequented by international visitors. The hotel is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the U.S. Embassy. According to an attorney familiar with the case, the diplomat sustained stab wounds to the head and neck.
Myanmar, also known as Burma, has been under military rule since a 2021 seizure of power. The country has since experienced widespread protests that have evolved into a civil war. Authorities in Myanmar have been reluctant to comment on the case, and journalists are prohibited from attending court proceedings.