Concerns have been voiced by a number of Myanmar NGOs after the Military Council detained, interrogated and later released the well-known author and philanthropist Wai Hin Aung, who has been actively involved in post-cyclone aid operations in Rakhine State, according to a report by Narinjara, published by Rakhine Communications Hub 29 May.

Although the NGOs are taking a more cautious approach to their relief efforts aid workers in Rakhine State remain resilient and committed to their ongoing humanitarian efforts, according to a leader of the Mrauk-U-based social aid organisation. "We all have concerns, not only our group, but all social aid organisations in Rakhine State, have concerns. While we persist in our work, the constant fear of being interrogated or arrested by the Military Council looms over us. Consequently, we are collectively and anxiously pressing ahead with our rescue operations.”

On 23 May, the military council apprehended a total of five members from the Bo Sein Social Relief Organization, including Wai Hin Aung, who had travelled to Ponnagyun Township to provide relief aid to those affected by the cyclone. Fortunately, they were released the following day. The arrests had sent a strong signal to all social relief organisations operating in Rakhine State, raising their level of vigilance and concern, Narinjara reports.

Two weeks after Cyclone Mocha hit Rakhine State, most of the people impacted by the storm are still awaiting substantial aid from both the junta and the international community. Locals said that numerous villages in the affected region are already grappling with acute scarcities of food and clean water.

The total death toll from the cyclone stands at around 150, with the full toll yet to be clarified. Fears have been voiced that the rainy season is about to hit when many of the victims face problems with shelter, food and water.