I don't think it's fake.   The article didn't mention a regular laser pointer.   You can easily buy handheld battery operated lasers that will permanently blind a person.   Here is a class 4 laser that can do permanent damage to ones eyesight with even indirect exposure.   https://www.wickedlasers.com/arctic and here's the data sheet saying what it can do.   https://www.lasersafetyfacts.com/4/  That said, I don't disagree with you about chemicals being a problem as well.   These vermin are not playing around, and its time to stop trying to treat them with kid gloves.