The viral recording quickly spread on social media, depicting the mayor firing the device at Bobbio's back amid laughter, causing him to immediately collapse, seemingly in an office setting.
Following the video's circulation, Carlos Bruce —who has confirmed his candidacy for the mayorship of Lima— described the footage as an "edited excerpt taken out of context". Official statements claim that the incident was part of a private and voluntary activity conducted in a trusted environment, asserting that it was a simulated scenario with no real danger to those present.
On the other hand, advisor Arturo Bobbio broke his silence to support the mayor's version, stating that the video captures a simulation of what would be a rehearsal for a planned "live journalistic" event the following day. Bobbio denounced the existence of "shadowy figures" attempting to defame him through image manipulation and even the use of artificial intelligence. He also reiterated his support for non-lethal weapons for public safety, affirming that he would "take a thousand shots" to prove that these devices are safe protective mechanisms.
This incident comes just days after the Surco municipality introduced 150 Taser 10 stun guns and body cameras for its security personnel. In March, Surco became the first district in the country to equip its staff with these American-made tools, allowing up to ten shots without immediate reloading. Despite the explanations, the video has sparked a heated debate on the responsible use of such weaponry by public officials.