The Phi Delta Theta fraternity chapter at the University of Chicago is being criticised heavily for playing a prank on an African-American U.S. Postal carrier that has been described as both 'racist and homophobic.'

Iran Becton, a mail carrier, said that the fraternity members made him 'needlessly' drag more than six dozen USPS priority postal supply boxes to the chapter's house in the 5600 block of South University Avenue.

"About a week after Memorial Day, I had an order to bring 79 of the boxes," Becton said. "I came to the address and explained to the frat member that I would have a lot more supplies. I went back to the truck for the boxes about six or seven times. After the last trip, one of the frat guys came out and said it was a practical joke. Another guy said that I should read the name backwards and I'll get the joke."

All the 79 boxes were addressed to 'Reggin Toggaf;' when read backwards, the first name represents a racial slur and the last name is a slur for gay men.

The fraternity alleges that the joke was played on them by another U Chicago frat and wasn't meant to insult Becton. They say that the prank was also organised by them.

Becton said that he felt offended and embarrassed. The fraternity issued a statement saying:

"While we were not responsible for this heinous and blatantly racist and homophobic federal offense, we are deeply saddened and sincerely apologize for any emotional distress caused to Mr. Iran Becton - the individual who delivered the boxes - as a result of this situation. We are fully cooperating with the authorities and the University administration in order to resolve this issue and hold accountable those responsible to the fullest extent of the law."

The Chicago Division Postal Inspection Services and the Aurora-based company from where the boxes were delivered have initiated an investigation into the racial incident. Until a written apology is issued, mail deliveries to the Phi Delt house will be suspended.

"Someone had to send an email to order those boxes, and the postal inspector should go after the person who ordered all this stuff. This is ridiculous that all you can tell me is that you are sorry it happened," Becton said.

Even after requesting both the university and the Postal Inspection Service to impose a punishment on the fraternity, no disciplinary action has been taken against them. The university has termed the prank as 'deplorable.'

In addition to hurting Becton's sentiments, the prank comprises of 'the abuse and possibly the destruction of postal property,' which is a criminal offense, according to a newspaper.