Taxi boss threatened over his safety planA TAXI firm boss and his family have been left fearing for their safety after he was sent a threatening letter.
Christie Wettassinghe, who runs Hawaii Five-0, was posted the note at his offices in Port Lane, Colchester.
The threat, which warns: “Beware of yourself and family”, appears to be a reaction to an identity scheme Mr Wettassinghe has launched.
Police are investigating the threat.
Dad-of-two Mr Wettassinghe said: “I opened it and my first reaction was just to throw it aside.
“Then I told a colleague and I went through it again and he said I had better phone the police.
“I didn’t want to tell my boys about it to upset them and I kept it quiet from my partner for a couple of days.”
Mr Wettassinghe has told his drivers to wear name badges, and they must waive the fare if they do not.
Colchester Council’s licensing team has backed the scheme.
The letter writer calls Mr Wettassinghe a “silly old man” and said the scheme would upset more than 400 drivers in Colchester.
He tells him to cancel the scheme and adds: “Otherwise beware of yourself and family! This is my first warning!”
Mr Wettassinghe said: “I am striving to do something positive.
“Someone has tried to put us backwards. I won’t have that.”
Mr Wettassinghe believes the person responsible could a driver concerned about being identified.
He has e-mailed all of his 60 drivers in the hope they will help him find the culprit.
Clive Woolgar, director of Five Sevens taxis in Colchester, said he was baffled as to why someone would oppose the scheme and was not aware of other firms having concerns over it.
He said: “I think it is disgusting if anyone has threatened him over it.
“He is just trying to find something new so people can feel safe.”
Essex Police says it is taking the matter very seriously.
A spokesman said: “We were contacted after a man in Colchester received a letter making threats against him and his family.
“This matter is being taken seriously. Forensic tests are being carried out and enquiries are continuing.”
“We want to hear from anyone with information or who recognises the expression of words used, or knows someone who may have the feelings to fuel it.”
Anyone with information can call PC Joseph Daunt at Colchester police on 101.
http://www.essexcountystandard.co.uk/ne ... fety_plan/
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