El Ojo Critico - No 23

Magazine Overview

Title: El Ojo Crítico
Issue Date: June 1998
Issue Number: 23
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of 'El Ojo Crítico' focuses on investigative journalism into paranormal phenomena, with a strong emphasis on exposing fraud and critiquing sensationalism within the field. The cover story delves into the alleged 'diablos' of Haiti, while other articles scrutinize cults, UFOlogy, and the commercialization of paranormal topics.

El fraude de los diablos de Haití

The main feature, "El fraude de los diablos de Haití: Crónica de una aventura paranormal en la capital del Vudú," chronicles the author's investigation into the phenomenon of 'diablos' in Haiti. The author, driven by a desire to find proof of the invisible world, travels to Haiti during carnival season. He recounts an unsettling encounter with a man dressed as Baron Samedí, a figure associated with death in Voodoo. The article explores the concept of 'diableros,' a rare type of sorcerer who allegedly uses non-human entities called 'diablos' for magical rituals. Unlike the Voodoo 'loas' (gods), these 'diablos' are described as real creatures that can be materialized and even photographed. The author notes the scarcity of literature on this specific phenomenon, contrasting it with existing information on zombies and Voodoo possessions.

Two personal accounts are presented: Miguel Blanco, a journalist, describes an experience eight years prior where he witnessed a 'diablo' materialized from a wooden box. The entity spoke in Creole, French, and Spanish, revealing personal details about him. Santiago M., a surveyor, shares a similar experience, detailing how a 'diablo' appeared from a box and spoke to him. Both accounts highlight the fear and awe experienced by the witnesses.

The author then details his own preparations and experiences in Haiti. He learns that while academic literature is scarce, rumors about 'diableros' circulate among tourism agencies. A brujo named Tony Guelin warns against photographing the materialized entities without permission, recounting a story of Belgian journalists who were killed after doing so. The author expresses a desire for respect towards unfamiliar religions and emphasizes his personal quest for truth over sensationalism.

The article delves into the syncretic nature of Haitian magic, where Voodoo incorporates elements from Catholicism, Buddhism, Judaism, and other religions. The author meets Maestro Garret, a Voodoo brujo who is also an expert in Kabbalah and Hermeticism. Garret agrees to perform a materialization ceremony for 'Astarot,' one of the legendary figures in demonology. The ritual is described as costly, requiring various offerings. The author and his companions negotiate the price down and agree to the ceremony.

During the preparation, the author and Miguel Blanco plant a sound-activated recorder and set up invisible threads around the designated circle to detect any anomalies. The ritual itself is described as long and tedious, involving incantations in Latin and French, incense, candles, and bells. The author notes the presence of a large wooden box covered by a black curtain, and a barrier of salt. He describes hearing strange sounds, including what he perceived as the 'diablo' clearing its throat. When the box is opened, a statue of an owl is found inside. The author suspects a trick, especially when he later discovers the box has a double bottom, suggesting a hidden accomplice.

Ultimately, the author concludes that the 'diablo' materialization was a sophisticated fraud, likely orchestrated by Jacques, the brujo who inherited the practice from his deceased uncle. This deception was intended to extract money from both locals and foreigners. The author expresses disappointment and a sense of disillusionment.

Alerta a los buscadores sinceros

Manuel Carballal, the author, cautions against generalizing the fraudulent practices of some individuals to the entire religion of Voodoo or the field of paranormal investigation. He emphasizes that while some practitioners may be fraudulent, it does not invalidate the genuine pursuit of knowledge. However, he warns that in impoverished countries like Haiti, Voodoo can be exploited for financial gain, particularly targeting tourists. He advises caution and critical thinking for anyone interested in studying Voodoo or similar phenomena, suggesting that the only paranormal phenomenon experienced might be the inexplicable disappearance of one's money.

DENUNCIAN UNA SECTA QUE ANUNCIA EL FIN DEL MUNDO, LIDERADA POR UN SUPUESTO ESTIGMATIZADO

This section investigates the sect Nonsiamosoli and its splinter group, Arca-Coruña, in Spain. The group is accused of systematically using media channels, including radio and television programs, to spread their messages, which include contactist and messianic ideas attributed to figures like Bongiovanni and Siragusa. Nonsiamosoli has registered as an NGO, "Asociación Nacional Nonsiamosoli."

The Arca-Coruña sect, led by Mercedes Cortés and José Manuel González, is described as more extremist and prone to fraud. They are accused of staging UFO landing events, creating fake 'landing gear' marks, and fabricating 'ummit' technology to deceive followers. José Manuel González, the leader, is also presented as a supposed stigmatized individual who experiences bleeding and trance-like states, which are used as a basis for attracting new members. The magazine suggests these phenomena are likely staged using chemical tricks, similar to magic illusions.

The article also criticizes Giorgio Bongiovanni and Eugenio Siracusa, key figures associated with Nonsiamosoli, for their alleged hypocrisy and commercial exploitation. Mercedes Cortés and others from Arca-Coruña accuse Bongiovanni of living a luxurious lifestyle while claiming to be a spiritual leader, and of not properly caring for his alleged wounds. They view him as an opportunist rather than a genuine spiritual figure.

Furthermore, the magazine examines the prophecies of the end of the world propagated by Siracusa and Bongiovanni, dating back to the 1950s. These prophecies, such as the prediction of an asteroid impact in August 1991, are presented as unfulfilled and lacking in genuine foresight. The article highlights how these prophecies are used to create a sense of urgency and fear among followers, encouraging them to seek refuge in 'Arcas' (shelters).

The section also touches upon the alleged encounters of Giorgio and Filippo Bongiovanni with public figures like Mikhail Gorbachev and the Queen of Spain. The magazine suggests these encounters were brief and likely based on politeness rather than genuine endorsement of their messages.

The article concludes by stating that the investigation into Nonsiamosoli and related groups is ongoing, with police involvement. The authors express their intention to reveal more details once criminal investigations are concluded, warning about the potential for these groups to exploit the credulity of young people.

La prostitución del periodismo paranormal

This lengthy section by Manuel Carballal critiques the commercialization and alleged corruption within the field of paranormal journalism. Carballal argues that many individuals who present themselves as investigators of the paranormal are driven by profit rather than a genuine search for truth. He contrasts the idealistic aspirations of young enthusiasts with the reality of seasoned investigators who, he claims, often resort to fabricating stories, exaggerating findings, or even creating hoaxes to maintain their media presence and income.

Carballal uses personal anecdotes to illustrate his point. He recounts his own youthful fascination with paranormal programs and magazines, and his eventual disillusionment upon meeting some of his childhood heroes. He claims that many of these figures, like radio host Antonio José Alés and parapsychologist Professor Darbó, admitted to not believing in the phenomena they discussed, but continued to do so for financial reasons. He criticizes the practice of charging exorbitant fees for paranormal conferences, workshops, and even 'initiation trips' to historical sites, which he views as a form of exploitation.

The author specifically targets Manuel José Delgado, an alleged 'pyramidologist' and tour organizer, accusing him of plagiarizing texts, fabricating evidence, and leading 'initiation trips' to Egypt that are more about commercial gain than genuine spiritual or historical exploration. Carballal questions the ethics of promoting esoteric beliefs and alleged extraterrestrial contact for profit, warning that such practices can mislead vulnerable individuals and damage the credibility of genuine paranormal research.

He argues that while it is legitimate for professionals to earn a living, the pursuit of profit should not compromise the integrity of the investigation. Carballal calls for a return to critical thinking and honesty within the paranormal field, urging investigators to focus on uncovering the truth rather than perpetuating myths and frauds.

El científico Stephen Hawking especula acerca de los OVNI

This brief note reports that physicist Stephen Hawking, during a conference in Washington D.C., made intriguing comments about UFOs and aliens. He acknowledged the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation and the government's potential cover-up, but also suggested there might be an alternative explanation for the lack of contact, which he did not elaborate on.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

'El Ojo Crítico' consistently adopts a skeptical and investigative stance towards paranormal claims. The magazine aims to expose fraud, debunk sensationalism, and encourage critical thinking among its readers. Recurring themes include the commercialization of the paranormal, the exploitation of beliefs for financial gain, and the potential for cults to manipulate followers. The editorial stance is one of rigorous investigation, prioritizing evidence and rational analysis over unsubstantiated claims. The magazine appears to be critical of both fraudulent practitioners and those who uncritically accept paranormal phenomena. It advocates for a balanced approach, acknowledging the existence of genuine mysteries while remaining vigilant against deception.

Title: El Ojo Crítico
Issue Date: May 21, 1998
Content Focus: This issue of 'El Ojo Crítico' covers a diverse range of topics, including the 'Mundo Misterioso' awards ceremony in Madrid, an in-depth exploration of Theosophy and its founder Madame Blavatsky, numerous reports of triangular UFO sightings, and a section on esoteric crimes.

'Mundo Misterioso' Awards Ceremony

The magazine details the 'Mundo Misterioso' awards ceremony held in Madrid on May 21, 1998, at the Museo y Club de Magia Houdinni. The event, attended by over 400 people, aimed to foster critical and humanitarian aspects of the mystery world. Special awards were given to Vicente Moros for his humanitarian initiatives and paranormal research, and to the magazine 'Año Cero' for its critical investigative publications. Dr. Fernando Jiménez del Oso was honored with an audience-voted award. The ceremony was sponsored by the thematic channel MILLENNIUMM and directed by Julia Jimeno, with presentations by Bruno Cardeñosa.

Theosophy: Keys to a Myth

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an exploration of Theosophy and its controversial founder, Madame Helena Petrovna Hahn Fadéeff Blavatsky (1831-1891). The article traces her life from her aristocratic Russian upbringing, through her early experiences with phenomena attributed to her, to her travels and eventual establishment of the Theosophical Society in London. It discusses her encounters with alleged Mahatmas, particularly Koot Hoomi, and her mission to create an esoteric school. The text delves into Blavatsky's interpretation of ancient texts, her critique of traditional religions, and her theories on human evolution through various 'Root Races' (Chhâyâs, Lemurians, Atlanteans, Aryans, etc.), drawing heavily from her seminal work, 'The Secret Doctrine.' The article also touches upon the controversial origins of the Theosophical Society and the criticisms leveled against Blavatsky regarding the authenticity of her claims and the alleged fraudulence of her psychic abilities, citing the Hodgson Report. It highlights the influence of authors like Sir Bulwer Lytton on Blavatsky's narratives and discusses the classification of races within Theosophy, drawing parallels with Linnaean taxonomy. The piece concludes by noting the enduring impact of Blavatsky's ideas on contemporary esotericism, despite accusations of plagiarism and fabrication.

Course on Sects for Police and Civil Guard

This section reports on a closed-door training course held in Santiago de Compostela on March 11-12, 1988, for criminologists, police officers, and members of the Civil Guard. The course, organized by the Academia Gallega de Seguridade and the Cosejería de Justicia, Interior y Relaciones Laborales, focused on investigating unusual topics such as contactism, Satanism, parapsychology, and esoteric Nazism. The article highlights the growing presence of such groups in Spain, with an estimated 200,000 adherents, some of whom are considered high-risk. Speakers included Catholic priest Atilano Alais and sociologist Carlos Coloma, who discussed the influence of sects and the need for awareness. Inspector-Chief Santiago Delgado of the National Police presented on 'esoteric Hitlerism,' the Thule Order, and the interest in the occult by the Third Reich, identifying groups like Centro Tradicional Asgar and Hermandad Aria as dangerous. Manuel Carballal discussed UFO cults, noting how many incorporate ET worship into their doctrines. Carlos Fernández moderated a panel on sects in Spain. The article also mentions the projection of a video on Satanism in Spain, which was reportedly censored. Eliseo Gutiérrez, Head of the Sects Group of the National Police, explained data exchange between security forces and presented cases, including that of Heide Fittkau. Journalist Pepe Rodríguez offered a dissenting view on the alleged suicidal intentions of Fittkau's followers.

The Appearance of Triangular UFOs (Part II)

This article continues the investigation into triangular UFO sightings, detailing several incidents primarily from 1996 and 1997 in the United States and Ireland. Reports include sightings in Gulf Breeze, Florida; along the Pennsylvania Turnpike; near Sacramento; in Redding, California; and in Elk City, Oklahoma. Witnesses describe the objects as large, silent, triangular craft with lights and sometimes emitting beams of light. The article notes the recurring connection between these sightings and US Air Force bases, such as Eglin and Beale. It discusses the possibility that these craft are advanced, unconventional aircraft, possibly lighter-than-air vehicles used for transporting heavy equipment. The piece also references a report from WSB radio in Georgia about experimental 'U' shaped aircraft being tested at Fort Benning and mentions articles about Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAV). The author questions whether these sightings represent solid vehicles, interdimensional projections, or something else entirely.

New Information on the Billy Meier Case

This section presents new information regarding the Billy Meier UFO contact case. Investigator Pedro P. Canto has provided photographs that raise questions about the authenticity of images previously circulated by Meier, which he claimed depicted extraterrestrials named Asket and Nera. It is suggested that Meier may have used images of actresses from the Dean Martin Show (1970s) as the basis for his 'alien' photographs. Meier himself reportedly admitted that the photos did not show the actual extraterrestrials but their 'exact North American doubles,' attributing this to a 'confusion operation' by 'Men in Black.' Despite these revelations, the Semjase Silver Star Center continues to sell these images. The article emphasizes the importance of these findings for UFO researchers.

Archive of Press: Esoteric Crimes

This section compiles news reports on various incidents related to esoteric beliefs and practices:

• England: A 23-year-old man who believed he was the Antichrist and practiced satanic rites murdered a nun in a brutal attack.
• United States (Providence): A man claiming to act on Satan's orders murdered two children.
• Tanzania: At least 64 elderly women were murdered over two years in the Tabora region due to suspicions of witchcraft.
• Greece (Creta): A young Italian couple, followers of a sect and interested in esotericism and black magic, were found brutally mutilated on the island of Crete. Symbols associated with the Antichrist and black magic were found at the scene.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the intersection of the paranormal, esotericism, and societal phenomena, as evidenced by the 'Mundo Misterioso' awards, the deep dive into Theosophy, and the reports on UFO sightings. The magazine also addresses the darker side of these interests through its coverage of esoteric crimes and cults, highlighting the potential dangers and societal impact. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various perspectives and evidence while acknowledging controversies and skepticism, particularly in the UFO and Theosophy sections. The inclusion of police training on cults suggests an awareness of the real-world implications of these phenomena. The magazine aims to inform and provoke thought on subjects often on the fringes of mainstream discourse.