Racist Hate Mail Targets Chinese Takeaway Over Coronavirus Blame
Police are investigating after a vile, expletive-laden hate letter was sent to a Chinese restaurant in Denmead. The disgusting note blames Chinese people for the Coronavirus outbreak, spouting racist abuse and wild conspiracy theories.
Disgusting Rant Threatens Boycott of Local Businesses
The letter landed at Lucky Star Chinese Restaurant on Hambledon Road. It accuses Chinese people of spreading COVID-19 by eating dogs and uses offensive, racist language throughout. It also threatens a boycott of all Chinese restaurants in the Cosham, Waterlooville, and Denmead areas — even naming the nearby Grandeur Beauty Salon as a target.
The beauty salon has handed the letter to Hampshire Police. Detectives hope to trace the culprit thanks to the distinctive handwriting on the handwritten envelope.
“We are utterly speechless with this letter we have received as a couple of small businesses in the Denmead community and feel very unsafe,” the salon’s staff said.
“The letter has already left our hands and is now with the police. We will let them do their job.”
Local Community Rallies Around Targeted Businesses
Support has poured in from local residents on social media. Katie Sandiford posted, “This is disgusting. I have no words!! Let’s just hope these people get caught as there is no place for people like this. Our support is with you xx.”
Janine Pert added, “What evil person could write that? I hope the police are able to find & prosecute them!”
Robert Huntley slammed the racists: “What’s wrong with these vile people? Instead of blaming individuals, everyone should be helping each other out in a time like this. Show some community unity, people.”
Hampshire Police Urge Public to Help Catch Culprit
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said:
“We received a report on 11 March about a letter sent to a business in Denmead linked to speculation about coronavirus. Anyone with information should call 101 quoting 44200092531.
“Any crime motivated by ignorance, prejudice or hate is unacceptable.
“We are working with partners and local Chinese communities and encourage everyone to report incidents by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made online or through Third Party Reporting Centres for hate crime.”
Due to the offensive content, parts of the letter have been redacted here, although the victims had already shared the full letter on social media.
