El Ojo Critico - No 38 - Invierno 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: EL OJO CRITICO
Issue: N° 38
Date: INVIERNO 2002
Publisher: GRUPO FÉNIX
Country: ESPAÑA

This issue of 'El Ojo Critico' focuses on the intersection of sects, politics, and espionage in Spain, with a particular emphasis on events and controversies surrounding these themes.

Sectas, Política y Espionaje en España

The lead article details the "Spanish Watergate" scandal, which broke on June 12, 1995, when the newspaper El Mundo published information that the CESID (Spain's secret service) had been spying on prominent Spanish personalities for years. The article lists 93 telephone conversations recorded between 1984 and 1994, involving figures such as King Juan Carlos I, his father Juan de Borbón, political leaders like Jorge Vestringe and Enrique Múgica, businessmen like Ruiz Mateos and Ramón Mendoza, and media figures like Juan Luis Cebrián. The CESID's defense in the subsequent trial claimed that their methods involved random sweeps of radio frequencies, not targeted surveillance. The article also highlights the case of the Church of Scientology (Dianética), whose phone conversations were allegedly tapped by CESID between 1987 and 1988. The president of Dianética in Spain, Petrus Eeraerts, stated that members did not have mobile phones at the time, suggesting fixed-line taps. The article questions the CESID's interest in Dianética, speculating about potential foreign intelligence links.

La ufología anticomercial española se reúne en Teruel

This section reports on a non-commercial ufology conference held in Montalbán, Teruel, on March 31, 1993. The event brought together researchers and witnesses to discuss the state of ufology in Spain away from commercial interests. Notable attendees included Salvador Freixedo and Manuel Carballal. The article highlights presentations on 'foo-fighters' and luminous spheres, as well as encounters with humanoids. It also mentions the work of José Ramón Martínez, an entrepreneur who claims to have developed inventions based on his close encounter with an extraterrestrial, and his meeting with Billy Meier, who allegedly possesses spectacular UFO photographs. The article also touches upon the experiences of Joan Soler and Magdalena de Amo-Freixedo.

El fraude de las apariciones marianas de Pedrera

This article investigates a case of alleged Marian apparitions in Veguetas de las Revueltas, near Pedrera (Sevilla), which began on May 3, 1987. Three young girls, Buen Suceso Escobar González and sisters María and Rosario Sánchez Guillén, claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary. The reported messages focused on peace and love. The site quickly became a pilgrimage destination, with claims of miraculous cures. The article notes the subsequent involvement of Carmen López Hernández, who claimed to receive continuous messages and exhibit stigmata. The narrative questions the authenticity of the events, highlighting the commercialization and sensationalism that often surrounds such phenomena.

Entrevista a Clara Tahoces

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Reflexiones sobre Friendship

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Terror, gore y snuff movies

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El vampirismo y la medicina

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Drogas y experiencias psíquicas

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Gestión científica de los fenómenos anómalos

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Los confidenciales de EOC

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Cuando los gigantes descendieron del cielo (I)

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Corrupción, Política y el Partido Humanista

This section details the involvement of Carlos Alberto Van Schowen, a Chilean resident in Spain, with the Partido Humanista (PH). Van Schowen, an accountant for Time Export, denounced that the companies Filesa, Malesa, and Time Export were fronts for illegal financing of the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers' Party). He claimed they were used to issue fake invoices for non-existent technical reports. The article links the PH to Mario Rodríguez Cobos (Silo) and his libertarian ideology. It also discusses the PH's involvement in the formation of Izquierda Unida (IU) and its subsequent departure due to political discrepancies. The section notes that the PH has struggled to achieve significant electoral results and has faced accusations from anti-sect groups and members of the PSOE, particularly regarding its alleged connection to sects.

El CESID espía a los Iluminati

This article investigates the CESID's alleged interest in the Illuminati organization and its potential connections to Mario Conde. It recounts how reporters Manuel Cerdán and Antonio Rubio obtained information about the CESID's surveillance efforts. Gabriel López de Rojas, leader of the satanic and paramasonic organization Orden Iluminati, claims that CESID agents attempted to infiltrate his group to gather information about Mario Conde's possible involvement with Freemasonry and esoteric groups. López de Rojas alleges that a CESID agent tried to join the Illuminati in 1992-1993, and another agent infiltrated the organization in 1996. He also claims that the CESID was interested in whether Conde had any relationship with foreign intelligence services. The article mentions Conde's alleged membership in the Concordia Lodge of Madrid and his interest in becoming a passive member.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around government secrecy, political corruption, and the investigation of unconventional phenomena such as sects, ufology, and alleged paranormal events. The magazine appears to adopt a critical stance towards official narratives and institutions, particularly the CESID and political parties, by exposing alleged clandestine activities and scandals. The editorial stance seems to favor investigative journalism that uncovers hidden truths and challenges established powers, while also exploring fringe topics with a degree of skepticism and critical analysis, as seen in the articles on ufology and Marian apparitions.

This issue of "Más Allá" (Beyond) delves into alleged paranormal phenomena, primarily focusing on the controversial Marian apparitions at "El Higuerón" in Spain, while also touching upon UFO investigations in Chile. The magazine presents a critical and investigative approach, questioning the authenticity of the reported miracles and exploring potential fraud and financial motives.

The El Higuerón Apparitions: A Critical Investigation

The central theme revolves around the alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Carmen López in "El Higuerón," a rural area near Pedrera, Spain. The narrative begins with the establishment of a pilgrimage site following a message received by López in 1988, which prompted followers to build her a house on a donated property. The location quickly became a hub for devotees, drawn by claims of miraculous events.

Claims of Miracles and Prodigies

Upon visiting the site, the magazine's investigators observed numerous religious icons that allegedly bled. A crucifix was described as bleeding from its face, hands, and feet, with the bleeding purportedly occurring during significant events or misfortunes, such as the Gulf War. Additionally, a chalice was said to emanate blood, and other religious items were claimed to have been "materialized" by the Virgin. Photographs of Carmen López were also presented, showing her with a crown of thorns and stigmata, which were attributed to Jesus Christ.

Skepticism and Allegations of Fraud

Despite the fervent belief of many followers, the magazine expresses strong skepticism. The frequency and circumstances of these alleged miracles are deemed "tremendously suspicious." The publication posits that the entire affair is a "pseudoreligious setup" and a "tremendous montage." The investigators note that such phenomena rarely occur in the presence of the public or independent media, suggesting a deliberate orchestration.

One former follower, Rosa M., recounts her experience of witnessing the supposed Virgin's movements as more akin to a dancer than a divine figure, and noted something dark, like trousers, beneath the tunic. She also describes an incident where she and others were confronted and threatened by followers when they attempted to uncover the truth.

Further doubts are raised by the alleged bleeding of a book by Pitita Ridruejo, which was analyzed and confirmed to contain human blood. However, the analysis was deemed not exhaustive, and the vidente reportedly opposed sending the book for further laboratory testing.

Explaining the Phenomena: Disguises and Deception

The magazine suggests that the "apparitions" are likely staged. Investigators point to instances where the vidente would disappear and reappear with stigmata or religious items. It is proposed that she would hide to apply makeup for the stigmata or to place items that were provided by her associates. The use of a red or green light descending from the sky is described as a signal for the Virgin's appearance, followed by a figure carrying a luminous sphere.

Eyewitness accounts from individuals hiding near the property describe seeing someone dressed in a sheet and holding a lamp or lantern, with visible trousers underneath. The presence of flares, typically used in maritime rescues, is also cited as a potential explanation for the lights and "celestial aromas" associated with the apparitions.

Financial Motives

The article suggests that financial gain could be a significant motive behind the alleged apparitions. The organization supporting Carmen López is said to be involved in selling blessed water bottles, videos, and other souvenirs. Testimonies from former followers indicate that the economic aspect is central to the operation.

Furthermore, a dispute arose between Carmen López and Carmen Borrego (a former follower who had been given part of the property by the Virgin's alleged instruction) over the ownership of the remaining land after the construction of the house and chapel, leading to legal action.

UFO Investigations in Chile

The magazine also features a section on UFO investigations, particularly focusing on the "Friendship" case in Chile, which involved claims of an extraterrestrial island. The author, Raul Nuñez, discusses the controversy surrounding the case, the involvement of various ufologists, and the alleged connections to destructive sects and irrational mysticism.

Key Figures in Chilean Ufology

Nuñez mentions several individuals involved in Chilean ufology, including Rodrigo Fuenzalida, described as a charismatic communicator who promotes UFO theories extensively. He also discusses Dr. Mario Dussuel, a psychiatrist who is presented as a believer in ETs and Ovnis, and who introduced the author to a character referred to as an "ET juguetón" (playful ET) named Osvaldo Quijada.

Internet and Paranormal Claims

The role of the internet in spreading paranormal claims is highlighted, with mentions of individuals like "Isabel," who allegedly makes predictions about UFO sightings and presents herself as a guru. The author notes that such figures are often elusive when direct verification is sought.

The "Friendship" Case and its Controversies

Raul Nuñez expresses skepticism about some aspects of the "Friendship" case, suggesting that while it may have had a solid foundation and future project initially, it has been exploited for other purposes. He criticizes the tendency towards mysticism and egocentrism among some investigators, advocating for more honesty and less protagonism in the field.

Clara Tahoces: A Multifaceted Investigator

The issue includes an interview with Clara Tahoces, described as a graphologist, writer, cartomancer, and investigator. Tahoces discusses her early interest in the paranormal, her work investigating esoteric criminality, sects, and frauds, and her current focus on less "dark" themes. She reflects on her experiences with divination practices, noting that while she uses Tarot for meditation, she has become disillusioned with the general state of divination professionals in Spain, finding a lack of preparation and interest.

Tahoces also shares her views on the role of women in the paranormal world, acknowledging that investigative work can be more challenging and less lucrative for women. She discusses her study of Spanish ufologists, differentiating between field and desk investigators, and notes that the general panorama of ufology has evolved.

Other Mentions

The issue also briefly mentions a case in Iquique, Chile, where a Peruvian tarot reader was accused of sexual assault. It also references a photograph related to Pinochet and "ex Dignidad."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of alleged paranormal phenomena, with a strong emphasis on critical analysis and the exposure of potential fraud. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical stance towards claims of miracles and supernatural events, seeking rational explanations and highlighting financial or psychological motives. The role of media and the internet in disseminating such claims is also a recurring point of discussion. The editorial stance is clearly one of investigative journalism, aiming to uncover the truth behind sensational claims, particularly in the realms of alleged religious apparitions and UFO sightings.

This issue of "OPINION" (Volume 21, Issue 21) delves into the dark and often disturbing realms of "TERROR, GORE Y SNUFF MOVIES." The magazine explores the psychological impact of media violence, the historical and medical explanations for vampirism, and the effects of psychoactive drugs.

The Phenomenon of Media Violence

The lead article, "TERROR, GORE Y SNUFF MOVIES," begins by discussing David Cronenberg's film "Videodrome" as a metaphor for how television can alter the viewer's mind through real or simulated violence. It notes that while news programs don't aim to shock, they frequently bombard viewers with violent scenes, eliciting varied reactions from horror to morbid fascination. The article highlights the 9/11 attacks as an example of a real-life tragedy that captivated millions. It asserts that a demand exists for more explicit content, leading to the proliferation of "Reality-shows" and "mondo" films (documentaries featuring real, often gruesome, events). Examples like "Faces of Death," "Traces of Death," and "Asia Perversa" are mentioned, along with online platforms like "Mondo Video" and "Mondo Movie" that host such content.

Román Gubern, a professor of Audiovisual Communication, is quoted stating that violence is a marketable product that sells well if it guarantees an adrenaline rush. The article touches upon the ethical debate surrounding "snuff movies," which allegedly depict real murders for entertainment, distinguishing them from fictional gore films.

The Myth and Reality of Vampirism

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the origins and nature of vampirism. It debunks the supernatural aspects, proposing medical and psychological explanations. The article revisits historical accounts from the 18th century, where symptoms attributed to vampires were later understood to be related to diseases like Anthrax. Dr. Christian Reiter's work is cited, suggesting that the symptoms of Anthrax—fever, convulsions, cardio-respiratory distress—could be mistaken for vampiric attacks. The theory is supported by the fact that doctors examining supposed vampire victims did not contract the supposed contagion.

Another theory presented is that of Dr. George Tallar, who in 1784 linked vampiric symptoms to the strict fasting imposed by the Orthodox Church, leading to anemia. More contemporary medical explanations include schizophrenia, rabies, and porphyria.

Porphyria: The "Vampire Malady"

The article focuses heavily on porphyria, a group of genetic disorders affecting the body's ability to metabolize porphyrins, which are essential for hemoglobin production. Symptoms include extreme photosensitivity, leading to severe burns and skin damage, as well as physical deformities like receding gums, sharpened teeth, and hair growth (hirsutism). These symptoms, combined with nocturnal activity and a pale appearance, are argued to be the basis for vampire folklore. The article notes that there are currently around 100-200 known cases of porphyria worldwide.

The Dracula Connection

Jonathan Harker's description of Count Dracula in Bram Stoker's novel is analyzed and compared to the physical characteristics of porphyria patients. While acknowledging that Stoker's character was inspired by historical figures like Vlad III (Vlad the Impaler), the article clarifies that Vlad III was a historical figure known for his cruelty but not a vampire. The timing of Stoker's novel publication (1897) and Dr. Gunther's research on porphyria (1874) is highlighted as a significant coincidence, suggesting Stoker may have based Dracula's appearance on the symptoms of porphyria.

Rabies and Other Explanations

Rabies is also considered as a potential explanation for some vampiric traits, particularly aggression and nocturnal activity. However, the article notes the lack of evidence for the characteristic transmission method (bites) in historical accounts.

Case Studies

The magazine presents several case studies, including that of Stutley Tillinghast in Rhode Island (1790), where a daughter was accused of vampirism after a series of family deaths. Another case involves William Rose in Peacedale (1874), who exhumed his daughter's body due to fears of vampirism. The case of Mercy Brown (1892) is also detailed, where her corpse was found unusually preserved.

Drugs and Psychic Experiences

The issue also explores the connection between drugs and altered states of consciousness. Ketamine is discussed as a drug that can induce extracorporeal experiences (out-of-body experiences) and near-death experiences (NDEs), similar to those described by Dr. Raimon J. Moody. The article explains that ketamine works by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain, preventing excitotoxicity and allowing for altered perceptions. It mentions the use of ketamine in therapeutic settings for alcoholism and its potential for social control by governments.

Scopolamine, also known as "burundanga" or "zombie powder," is described as a drug that can induce amnesia and loss of willpower, making individuals vulnerable. Its use in criminal activities, particularly in Colombia and the US, is highlighted.

Jack the Ripper

A brief section discusses Patricia Cornwell's theory that the artist Walter Sickert may have been Jack the Ripper, based on DNA analysis of letters and other evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions supernatural explanations for phenomena, favoring scientific, medical, and psychological interpretations. There's a recurring theme of media's influence on perception and behavior, particularly concerning violence and the macabre. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations for historical myths and contemporary concerns. The issue emphasizes the power of media to shape reality and the human fascination with the darker aspects of life.

This issue of ENIGMAS magazine, identified as issue 31, delves into various unexplained phenomena, investigative projects, and cultural discussions surrounding the paranormal and UFOs. The cover prominently features the book "Los Expedientes Secretos" by Manuel Carballal, which examines the role of CESID (a Spanish intelligence agency) in controlling beliefs and inexplicable phenomena, posing the question of whether the reader dares to uncover the truth.

Fundación Anomalía and Proyecto Klaatu

The magazine reports on the Fundación Anomalía, a non-profit entity established in 1997, dedicated to the study of scientific influences on popular culture and the investigation of natural anomalies. Its president, José Ruesga Montiel, outlines the foundation's objectives, including archive preservation, publication of specialized materials, and awarding grants. The foundation's patron board met in Madrid to launch "Proyecto Klaatu," an advanced IT project aimed at managing 50 years of UFO sighting data from Spain. Named as a nod to the science fiction film "The Day the Earth Stood Still," this project utilizes a powerful application to process vast amounts of information, with the goal of advancing definitive conclusions about the causes of the UFO phenomenon. Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, the director of investigations, highlighted the project's significance. The project is coordinated by Julio Arcas Gilardi, with expert input from Juan Antonio Calzada. Arcas views "Klaatu" as a long-cherished project for the foundation, consolidating efforts and bringing together documentary archives from numerous Spanish researchers. The program will undergo testing with real data for immediate technical improvements.

Awards and Recognition

At the annual meeting of Fundación Anomalía, the international "Zurich" prize was awarded to Ángel Carretero from Cádiz for his research on the Los Bateles case. This case involved sightings of strange lights and humanoid figures on the beach in Conil (Cádiz) in 1989. Carretero's work offers a rational explanation for the event, addressing the misinterpretations that followed. The "Universitas" scholarship, worth 900 euros, was granted to Jaime Servera of Valencia for coordinating the "Proyecto Maya" (an interactive module for analyzing anomalies focused on scientific method) and the "Tesis Doctorales" project (an international census of academic disciplines). Additionally, the "Ricardo Caruncho" award for organizing press archives went to Ignacio Cabria, the "Cuadernos de Ufología" award to the British magazine European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies, and the "Anaparéstesis" award to Manuel Blanco Gutiérrez, a counselor at Caja Cantabria.

Vandalism at a Raelian Center

In Maricourt, Quebec, Canada, a Raelian information center known as UFOLAND was vandalized, causing over $100,000 in damages. A security gate was rammed by a truck, and a white building, community center, and trailers were also damaged. The Raelian Church, originating in Switzerland, is considered a sect in several European countries and is based on the concept of extraterrestrial creation of humanity. The movement has been in the news regarding human cloning, with claims of having women willing to be implanted with cloned embryos. Raelians have also focused efforts on Quebec's high schools to encourage Catholics to renounce their faith.

Media and Television Programs

The paranormal television program "Otra Dimensión" on Antena3 has secured a contract for two more seasons. Rumors suggest that up to three new paranormal TV programs, distinct from "Otra Dimensión," may be in development. Tele5 is reportedly finalizing a program called "Kabala," while TVE and Localia TV are considering television projects hosted and produced by well-known Spanish investigators and divulgators.

Trial of a "Miracle Man"

On the first anniversary of the arrest of "psychic surgeon" and healer Andres Ballester in Campanillas (Málaga), legal proceedings are underway to bring the famous "miracle man" to trial. Defense and prosecution lawyers are finalizing details of the case, which is expected to bring Ballester back into the media spotlight. Prosecutors may ask the popular "psychic surgeon" to demonstrate his alleged powers by operating on an animal before the court, without tricks. During his arrest, it was discovered that Ballester was hiding animal viscera in his clothing, which he intended to pass off as human to his unsuspecting victims.

Book Review: "Un galego chamado Cristóbal Colón"

Jesuit Salvador Freixedo Tabares, a renowned investigator and author, has released a new book titled "Un galego chamado Cristóbal Colón." The book, written in Galician, proposes that Christopher Columbus was not only a navigator born in Pontevedra but also not the first European to set foot on the American continent. The book has received praise from prominent figures in Galician academia.

Bruno Cardeñosa's Prolific Career

Bruno Cardeñosa is highlighted as a prominent Spanish investigator in the paranormal field. He continues to be a regular commentator on the radio program "La Rosa de los Vientos" and is finalizing three new books: two on ufology and one on the 9/11 conspiracy. Cardeñosa has also joined the editorial team of ENIGMAS magazine, impacting the content of other publications like MAS ALLA and AÑO CERO.

"LA IMAGEN" (The Image)

This section discusses a local establishment called "La Ballena Alegre," a historic meeting place for UMMO affair discussions, which was recently acquired by an international chain of Irish pubs. The new owner, unaware of the location's paranormal and ufological history, claims that paranormal events still occur there. A surprising image is presented, purportedly from the location, with speculation about whether it is a flash effect, a specter, or something else.

Esoteric and Islamic Nazis

A scandal erupted in November involving a Galician high school professor accused by his students of promoting Hitler and Ben Laden in his classes. The professor, Jose Carlos Rios, also known as Suman Hanza Rios, is identified as the director of a magazine.

The Secret of the Nazi UFOs

This section poses the question of whether Nazis possessed flying saucers and mentions Angel Alcazar de Velasco, who died in April. Velasco was a spy for the Nazi secret services in Spain during World War II, decorated by Hitler, and honored in Japan. He is presented as someone who might have answered questions about Nazi UFOs.

The Videntes Return to Alcasser

This piece commemorates the 10th anniversary of the brutal Alcasser crime. It recalls how dozens of psychics and clairvoyants offered their services to locate the missing girls between November 1992 and January 1993, but none were successful. Ten years later, with renewed media attention, a new wave of psychics has offered conjectures about the whereabouts of Antonio Anglés, the main suspect, who remains at large. There is disagreement among these psychics regarding whether Anglés is alive or dead. Theories of conspiracy, snuff movies, and satanic rituals continue to be discussed, as they were a decade ago.

Homage to Andreas Faber Kaiser

A project is underway to organize an ambitious congress in May to honor the memory of the late Andreas Faber Kaiser. The event aims to bring together leading figures in the field of mystery to ensure that new generations of enthusiasts do not forget his legacy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of ufology, paranormal phenomena, conspiracy theories, and unexplained events. It highlights investigative journalism, book releases, and media developments in these areas. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting information from various sources, including research projects, personal testimonies, and media reports, while also acknowledging controversies and skepticism, as seen in the coverage of the Los Bateles case and the Alcasser crime.