Gota’s white vans after Mervyn’s Polu Upul

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has asked one of his coordinating officers Air Force Nishantha to take immediate action with regard to one of Minister Mervyn Silva’s coordinating secretaries, Upul Wijesuriya alias Polu Upul. Air Force Nishantha is in-charge of one of the white van units and his name has even figured in parliament over the abduction of people.

Amal Rodrigo and Panadure Donald, who were coordinating secretaries to Mervyn were earlier abducted and released after being tortured and interrogated when the President intervened. Many of Mervyn’s lackeys fled the country afterwards and only Kalu Ranja has so far returned to the country. He is now engaged in his private business.

Only Upul Wijesuriya remained with Mervyn without abandoning him.

He is well known as “Polu Upul” since he borrows monies from businessmen and later avoids returning them using political powers. Upul has also served as a governing party member of the Dickwella Pradeshiya Sabha. His father, Dickwelle Wijesuriya Hamu, is a meat stall owner in the area.

A senior official from the Defence Ministry said the Defecne Secretary has received information that Upul had extorted monies from several businessmen. The official said the Defence Secretary, who is not in good terms with Mervyn these days, has decided to take action against Upul based on extortion charges.