Re: Racist?
Of course not, me old china.
Most likely the poor unfortunate illiterate was attempting a spot of Cockney rhyming slang to reassure you they are genuine, bu got it as garbled as the rest.
Disclaimer (for the benefit of your editor): I have no prejudice against illiterates, Cockneys or online news editors and regard them as my equals in all pertinent respects. What I say should not be taken as criticism against them, especially editors, in any way.