UFO Cover-up

Magazine Overview

This issue of BUFORA INFO, dated 1997, focuses on the pervasive theme of a "UFO Cover-up," exploring the long-standing belief among ufologists and the public that governments worldwide are concealing knowledge about the UFO phenomenon. The magazine presents various facets of this alleged conspiracy, including the role of 'Men in Black' and the secrets surrounding Area 51.

The Alleged Government Conspiracy

The central premise discussed is that governments have known about alien visitations to Earth for years. This belief extends to accusations that government agencies possess crashed UFOs, alien bodies, and artifacts, which they are actively hiding. More extreme theories suggest governments might be in league with aliens, either through a deal or out of necessity to avoid destruction. The article notes that while many governments have conducted UFO studies, the evidence for a deliberate cover-up of an alien presence is not definitively proven.

Freedom of Information and Document Analysis

The article highlights how the Freedom of Information Act in the USA has allowed researchers to obtain thousands of documents related to UFO studies, many of which are heavily censored for 'national security' reasons. However, it points out that no official document unequivocally states the existence of an alien component to UFO cases. Some CIA memos, for instance, suggest the UFO mythology might be used to mask tests of secret US craft, a concept known as the 'Federal Hypothesis.' Leaked documents like the MJ-12 papers are mentioned as hints of high-level cover-ups, but concrete proof remains elusive.

The UK's lack of a Freedom of Information Act makes obtaining official UFO documents difficult. The article suggests avenues for UK researchers, such as contacting Members of Parliament or local military establishments, and recommends books by Tim Good, Jenny Randles, and Nick Redfern for further information.

Men in Black (MIB)

A significant section is dedicated to the mysterious 'Men in Black.' These individuals, typically appearing in pairs and dressed in dark clothing, are described as visiting UFO witnesses to intimidate them into silence. Their vehicles are often black, and they exhibit unusual physical characteristics and behaviors, leading to speculation about their origins – whether they are government agents, aliens in disguise, or manifestations of the witness's perception. The article recounts the case of Albert Bender, who claimed to be warned by MIBs to cease his ufological studies, and the intriguing incident involving Jim Templeton in Carlisle, UK, who was visited by MIBs after a strange photograph was taken.

Area 51 and Groom Lake

The article discusses Area 51, a top-secret military base in the Nevada desert, known as Groom Lake. It is widely rumored to be a site where crashed UFOs are stored. The testimony of Bob Lazar, who claimed to have worked on captured alien flying saucers there, is mentioned, though his claims remain unverified. Stranger versions of the Area 51 story suggest the base extends deep underground and that advanced US aircraft like the Stealth bomber were developed using retro-engineered alien technology. The article presents a skeptical view that the USAF might encourage UFO speculation around Area 51 to provide a cover for testing secret aircraft.

Skepticism and Caution

While acknowledging the fascination with UFO cover-up theories, the magazine urges caution. It warns against the temptation to believe in conspiracies without solid evidence, which can lead researchers astray. The article emphasizes that demonstrating a cover-up, especially one hiding extraterrestrial presence, is a far more difficult task than simply believing in it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

BUFORA maintains a neutral stance on the existence of a gigantic cover-up, stating that they weigh the evidence as it appears. The magazine explores various theories, including more bizarre extensions of the cover-up narrative, such as alleged secret military bases connected with UFOs. The overall tone suggests a critical yet open-minded approach to the subject, encouraging rigorous investigation while warning against unsubstantiated speculation. The issue highlights the ongoing government interest in UFO phenomena, even if the ultimate reason or nature of the phenomenon remains unclear.