A viral video captured a Nigerian policeman assaulting a motorist at a checkpoint for wearing AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses, sparking widespread outrage on social media.
The incident, which occurred in Lagos, showed the officer slapping the driver and attempting to snatch the eyewear, accusing him of recording police activities.
The footage, posted on X by user @General_Somto, quickly gained over 1.3 million views, with the caption questioning if wearing glasses is now a crime in Nigeria.
In the video, the policeman reaches into the driver’s Mercedes car, strikes him repeatedly, and demands to know why he is “putting us on camera.”
The motorist protests, asking, “Why are you hitting me? What have I done wrong? Can’t I wear my glasses again?” He explains that the glasses are his personal property and questions how they interfere with police work.
The Ray-Ban Meta glasses, equipped with cameras and AI capabilities, have become a flashpoint in similar incidents, as officers appear wary of being filmed during routine checks.
Social media users linked the event to ongoing issues of police brutality, recalling the 2020 #EndSARS protests that led to the disbandment of a notorious anti-robbery unit.
In response, Lagos State Police Command spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin issued a statement announcing swift action. “Following a thorough preliminary investigation, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered the immediate detention of the entire team,” Hundeyin said. “The officers will face an orderly room trial in line with established disciplinary procedures to ensure justice is served swiftly and transparently.”
The statement added that the implicated Tactical Squad was dissolved with immediate effect. A new squad has been formed, consisting of officers committed to international best practices, zero tolerance for corruption, and respect for human rights.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to serving and protecting the public with integrity and fairness,” Hundeyin emphasized.
“We urge all residents to continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies and to report any misconduct through our established channels.”
