El Ojo Critico - No 59 - Oct 2008

Magazine Overview

This issue of "EL OJO CRITICO" (The Critical Eye), number 59, dated October 2008, is a Spanish publication dedicated to investigative research, particularly concerning UFO phenomena, paranormal events, and related societal issues. The magazine is edited by GRUPO FENIX and published from La Coruña, Spain.

Cover Story: The Fraud of Crop Circles and Police Reports

The cover prominently features a headline about the alleged fraud surrounding crop circles and claims to provide access to police reports on the matter. Another significant headline discusses the military's tactics in UFO declassification, with the provocative subtitle "Tell them what they want to hear."

Main Articles and Features:

"Divide and Conquer: The Military Strategy"

This in-depth article by Manuel Carballal explores the complex and often contentious relationship between the Spanish military and ufologists. It questions whether the military utilizes ufologists and analyzes the origins of the divisions within the Spanish ufology community. The piece promises to reveal previously unpublished official documents that offer a revolutionary perspective on the military's involvement with UFO investigators in Spain. The article highlights the prominent figures of Juan José Benítez and Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, whose differing approaches and perceived relationships with the military have shaped the debate. It details how the military allegedly provided information selectively, fostering conflict and preventing a unified understanding of the UFO phenomenon. The piece references specific documents and events, including Benítez's access to 12 declassified UFO files in 1976 and the subsequent controversy.

"Sixto Paz, culo roto, su amigo y el otro..."

This section features reflections from Gabriel Carrión, a TV producer and writer, who shares personal anecdotes and thoughts on the paranormal and investigative journalism. He recounts an experience with Sixto Paz, a figure known in ufology circles, and discusses his own evolving perspective on the paranormal, moving from criticism to a more inclusive approach.

"INFORME: The New Cults of the 21st Century"

This investigative report delves into the phenomenon of new cults emerging in the 21st century, examining their characteristics, recruitment methods, and impact.

"The Military Tactic in UFO Declassification: 'Tell them what they want to hear'"

This article, likely related to the cover story, further elaborates on how military intelligence allegedly manipulates information and researchers by providing different narratives to different individuals or groups, thereby controlling the discourse and preventing a unified investigation.

"Interview with Miguel Blanco: 'I've been around the world seven times'"

This interview features Miguel Blanco, a well-known radio host of the program "Espacio en Blanco" (Space in White), who discusses his return to radio after a five-year hiatus. Blanco, who has a background in psychology and journalism, talks about his extensive travels and investigations into mysteries across five continents. He reflects on the evolution of his perception of the paranormal, the romanticism he misses in the field, and the increasing commercialization and mediatization of mystery investigations. He also mentions new exclusive topics for his program, including a case of demonic possession in rural Spain and investigations in Egypt, Mexico, and Peru.

"The Great Bigfoot Fraud of 2008"

This article critically examines the alleged discovery of a Bigfoot corpse in Georgia, USA, by Matthew Whitton and Rick Dyer. It details how this claim, promoted through a website and a press conference, was later exposed as a hoax, involving Whitton's brother posing as a scientist. The article discusses the motivations behind such hoaxes, including financial gain and media attention, and the impact on the Bigfoot research community.

"The Lost Files (7): Divide and Conquer: The Military Strategy"

This is a continuation of a series, likely the same article as detailed above, focusing on the military's alleged strategy of manipulating information and fostering divisions among UFO researchers.

Other Articles and Sections:

• "What they say about EOC": Testimonials from various individuals, including V. J. Ballester Olmos and Pedro Palao Pons, praising the magazine's longevity and contribution to ufology.
• "The nocive drug of Faith": An article exploring the negative aspects and potential dangers of blind faith.
• "The John Wayne Syndrome": This likely examines a psychological phenomenon or a specific case related to this theme.
• "The Blue Sense": A piece exploring a particular sensory or intuitive ability.
• "What don't you know about Martin Mystere?": An article likely related to the fictional character Martin Mystere, known for his investigations into mysteries.
• "The medium of Chimbarongo": An article about a specific medium.
• "Confidential Files of EOC": A section likely containing insider information or exclusive reports.
• "Announcements Board": A section for advertisements or notices.
• "Notes on the Madeleine Case": An article discussing the disappearance of Madeleine McCann.
• "Police and 'corp circles' of Ronda": An article connecting police investigations with crop circles.
• "The case of the transsexual medium": An article about a medium with a transsexual identity.
• "The best critical investigations": A review or compilation of significant critical analyses.
• "Free the accused of assaulting a seer with an axe": A news report about a legal case involving threats and alleged assault.
• "Detained the shaman who sodomized her to 'cure' her": A news report about a shaman accused of sexual assault under the guise of healing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, the exposure of hoaxes, and the investigation of alleged conspiracies and hidden agendas, particularly those involving military and governmental secrecy. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet open-minded stance, aiming to uncover the truth behind phenomena often shrouded in sensationalism or misinformation. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis and the presentation of documentary evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a debunking of fraudulent claims within the ufology and paranormal communities, while also acknowledging genuine mysteries and the importance of historical context.

This issue of "El Ojo Crítico" (The Critical Eye), issue number 59, delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on skepticism, psychology, religion, and alleged paranormal phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "Apuntes para un ensayo ateológico LA NOCIVA DROGA DE LA FE" (Notes for an Atheological Essay: The Harmful Drug of Faith), suggesting a strong emphasis on atheism and a critical examination of religious belief.

Articles and Content

The Bigfoot Hoax and Skepticism

The issue opens with an article by Scott Corrales detailing a recent Bigfoot hoax. He recounts how a supposed Bigfoot corpse was presented with questionable evidence, including inconclusive DNA tests and a resemblance to a possum. Professor Jeff Meldrum expressed doubts about the photos, and the incident led to public ridicule and the loss of a job for one of the individuals involved. Corrales laments how such frauds can damage the credibility of genuine investigations into the phenomenon, while asserting that unexplained cases persist in North American forests.

Review of Manuel Carballal's "El secreto de los dioses"

Diego Zúñiga reviews Manuel Carballal's book "El secreto de los dioses" (The Secret of the Gods). He describes it as an investigative work that blends adventure, past mysteries, and critical analysis of legends. The book takes readers on a journey across the globe, exploring topics like astroarchaeology, ancient cultures, and religious beliefs. Zúñiga notes that while the book offers entertaining stories, its true value lies in its debunking of pseudoscientific claims and its exploration of the origins of divine beliefs. He particularly highlights Carballal's personal reflections, suggesting that his work as a volunteer for the elderly reveals a deeper dimension to the author.

Perception and Belief: The Psychology of the Paranormal

This section explores the psychological differences between believers in the paranormal and skeptics. It cites studies by Peter Brugger (2007) indicating that believers tend to associate words more quickly, make more original metaphorical connections, and are more prone to seeing patterns in ambiguous stimuli. This capacity, while potentially linked to creativity, can also manifest as paranoia in individuals with schizophrenia. The article emphasizes that this tendency doesn't imply mental illness but rather a different way of processing information. It also touches upon the idea that a strong belief in the paranormal might correlate with lower academic performance, as suggested by Michael E. Sonntag's research.

The Synapse of Superstition

Marcello Spinella and Omar Wain (2005) conducted an experiment suggesting a link between executive functions (associated with the frontal lobe) and superstitious beliefs, as well as moral and religious attitudes. Their findings indicate that individuals with stronger paranormal or superstitious beliefs may exhibit lower levels of self-control and greater disorganization in their reasoning. The article also includes a quote from James Randi, who points out that belief in the paranormal is not limited to those with lower intellect.

Adolescents and Esotericism

German studies from the 1990s are discussed, linking adolescent interest in esotericism to a predisposition towards schizoid traits and neurotic personality traits. Psychiatrist Gunther Klosinski suggests that this attraction reflects a search for meaning and values, especially in young people experiencing existential crises. A Spanish survey on listeners of an esoteric radio program reveals a predominantly young audience.

Advertising Fraud and "Fake News"

This section highlights instances of advertising agencies creating fake news stories to promote products. Examples include fabricated UFO sightings across Spain and a campaign involving a supposed Amish settlement in Seville. The article criticizes media outlets that uncritically report these fabricated stories, contrasting them with the more discerning approach of specialized mystery publications.

Atheism: The "Harmful Drug of Faith"

The most extensive section of the magazine is dedicated to an atheological essay, arguing that faith is a "harmful drug." It presents statistics on declining religious adherence in Spain and critiques the Catholic Church's perceived attempts to regain influence through fear-mongering about hell and new sins. The essay posits that religion is rooted in irrationality and fear, serving as a coping mechanism for the fear of death and the desire for immortality. It contrasts the passive obedience demanded by religion with the active pursuit of knowledge and critical thinking promoted by atheism. The author cites philosophers like Nietzsche, Feuerbach, Russell, and Dawkins, who argue that religion hinders human progress and intellectual development. The essay asserts that atheism is a sign of mental health and a recovery of dignity, free from the dogmatic constraints and emotional dependencies imposed by religious belief. It criticizes the Bible as a source of immoral and violent narratives and questions the historical existence of Jesus. The article also touches upon the concept of "intelligent design" as a failed attempt to counter evolution and criticizes the Church's historical opposition to science and intellectual freedom.

The Nature of Belief and the Absence of Evidence

This part of the essay further explores the psychological underpinnings of belief, suggesting that emotional vulnerabilities and the desire for a transcendent meaning drive religious faith. It questions the concept of miracles, arguing that attributing events to divine intervention is a way to avoid confronting harsh realities. The essay emphasizes that scientific knowledge is based on evidence, while faith relies on unsubstantiated claims. It discusses how neuroscientific research, such as studies on temporal lobe epilepsy and brain activity during meditation, may offer explanations for subjective spiritual experiences, suggesting they stem from neurological processes rather than supernatural realms.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims and religious dogma, the psychological factors influencing belief, and the promotion of rational inquiry and atheism. The editorial stance is clearly critical of religion, viewing it as a source of irrationality, fear, and historical conflict, while advocating for science, reason, and atheism as paths to intellectual freedom and a more realistic understanding of the world. The magazine also demonstrates a commitment to exposing hoaxes and advertising fraud, particularly within the realm of mystery and the paranormal.

This issue of CRITICO magazine, identified by its issue number '21', delves into contemporary societal and psychological phenomena with a focus on Spain. The publication addresses the evolving nature of religious movements, the controversial use of psychic abilities in criminal investigations, and the psychological impact of war and violence, particularly as influenced by media portrayals.

The Rise of New Religious Movements in the 21st Century

The article 'Policía y expertos alertan sobre los nuevos movimientos religiosos del siglo XXI' highlights that immigration, the internet, and new forms of delinquency are key factors defining new sects in the 21st century. It notes a shift away from themes like millenarianism, UFOs, and the New Age, with a new form of sect having taken hold in Europe. The piece details the case of the Church of Scientology in Spain, which, after a lengthy judicial process, officially ceased to be classified as a sect in 2008 and was admitted into the Registry of Religious Entities. The article discusses Scientology's luxurious headquarters in Madrid, its high-profile supporters like Tom Cruise, and the legal battles many organizations face to gain official recognition as religions.

Psychic Investigations and 'Blue Sense'

The section 'El fenómeno de "El Sentido Azul"' explores the concept of 'blue sense'—a police officer's intuition about danger, guilt, or deception—and the role of 'psychic detectives' in criminal investigations. It notes that while psychics are sometimes consulted, their contributions are often based on vague impressions that may reflect public speculation rather than paranormal abilities. The article examines cases in the Netherlands and Argentina where psychics were involved in investigations, such as the kidnappings of industrialists and the disappearance of Dr. Cecilia Giubileo. It suggests that psychics are more successful in cases of missing persons than in murder investigations. The phenomenon of psychometry, the ability to receive impressions from physical objects, is also discussed, with research projects in Argentina exploring the psychological and parapsychological characteristics of individuals claiming such abilities.

The Psychology of Violence and War: The 'John Wayne Syndrome'

Another significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the psychological aspects of violence and war, particularly through the lens of the 'John Wayne Syndrome' discussed in the article 'Psicología y estética de la violencia: "Sed de Sangre": El síndrome de John Wayne'. This section examines how combat can evoke both anguish and pleasure, citing the experiences of soldiers like William Broyles. It explores how modern media, especially films, create a romanticized and often detached view of warfare, leading soldiers to internalize cinematic scripts and behave as if they are in a movie. The article discusses how this dissociation can be psychologically useful but also dangerous, as seen in cases where soldiers act out heroic fantasies with lethal consequences. The influence of Westerns and war films in shaping perceptions of combat is highlighted, with examples ranging from John Wayne's films to the portrayal of soldiers in the Vietnam War.

Remote Viewing and Psychic Espionage

The magazine also covers government-funded research into psychic phenomena, specifically 'remote viewing'. Projects like the US government's 'Stargate' program, which involved psychics visualizing distant targets for intelligence purposes, are detailed. The article discusses the methodologies, findings, and controversies surrounding these experiments, noting that while some results were statistically significant, their practical application in operational contexts was debated. The involvement of institutions like the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) and the Science Application International Corporation (SAIC) is mentioned, along with the significant financial investment in these programs.

Philosophical and Scientific Debates

An article by Moisés Garrido, 'UNA ACLARACIÓN FINAL', presents a strong argument for atheism and criticizes the religious establishment for its perceived intolerance and resistance to scientific progress. Garrido advocates for critical thinking and reason over faith, arguing that religion has historically hindered human development and freedom. He calls for religious matters to be open to public critique, just like political and economic issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently critiques religious dogma and institutions, advocating for reason, scientific inquiry, and secularism. There is a strong emphasis on the psychological impact of media and societal influences on perceptions of violence, war, and belief systems. The magazine appears to adopt a critical and investigative stance, questioning established narratives and exploring controversial topics with a focus on empirical evidence and rational analysis. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism regarding paranormal claims unless rigorously substantiated by scientific research, while also acknowledging the complex psychological factors at play in human belief and behavior.

This issue of EOC magazine, dated May 2000, focuses on the dangerous sects operating in Spain, with a cover headline highlighting "The most dangerous sects in Spain in 2008." The publication delves into the evolving landscape of cults, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the increasing role of the internet in recruitment. It also includes a report on a UFO sighting and a feature on the comic character Martin Mystere.

Sectas más peligrosas de España en 2008

The lead article, citing Juantxo Domínguez, director of Red UNE, criticizes the lack of expertise and investigation into sects by Spanish police and municipal institutions. Domínguez argues that many groups, some internationally recognized for their sectarianism, receive support from local governments and even ministries due to ignorance or lack of information. He calls for the establishment of an observatory on new cults and sectarian groups to investigate, advise, and defend victims. The article lists several groups that Red UNE considers particularly noteworthy, including Doce Tribus, Creciendo en Gracia, Energía Humana y Universal, La Familia (Niños de Dios), Gran Fraternidad Universal, Instituto Gnóstico de Antropología, Mahikari, Nueva Acrópolis, Centros de Sathya Sai Baba, and Tvin-Humana.

Nuevos tiempos, nuevas sectas

Contacting officials from the Guardia Civil, National Police, Ertzaintza, and Mossos d'Esquadra, EOC learns that while the number of sects hasn't necessarily increased, their nature has changed. Confidential information from the Guardia Civil indicates that the focus is now on foreign groups that have established themselves in Spain after 2000, rather than the traditional Spanish sects of the 1990s. Three examples are provided: RAMTHA'S School of Enlightenment, which organizes international gatherings in Europe; the Iglesia del Santo Daime, associated with shamanic plants and hallucinogenic drugs; and Asociación Mahikari-Luz Verdadera, a Japanese organization with a global expansion that generates millions through donations and property income.

The article details the "Operación Ambar" in Alicante in 2006, which dismantled the "Colectivo Amba," led by Victoria A. R. (alias "Vibhuti"). This group's doctrine was a syncretic mix of New Age theories, personal growth, and Reiki practices, with initiations used for recruitment and dependency creation.

Juantxo González of Red UNE explains that sects now often disguise themselves as NGOs, investment groups, or alternative therapy centers, making them harder to identify. Red UNE, founded three years prior, aims to unite past experiences in combating sects and develop preventive policies to protect civil rights.

A seminar on sects and New Religious Movements at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid highlighted the increasing use of the internet for recruitment.

Menos satanismo y cultos OVNI

While sects associated with immigration from Arab countries, Latin America, and Africa are on the rise, satanic groups and UFO cults are declining. The article recounts the prosecution of Gabriel López de Rojas, leader of the Orden Iluminati, for threats against journalists investigating sects, marking a turning point for satanism in Spain. The dissolution of the Misión Rama and other UFO cults is linked to the uneventful transition from 1999 to 2000. The Raëlian Movement is mentioned as an exception, successfully using technology and sex appeal to attract followers.

Operaciones policiales contra sectas en España

This section details several police operations against sects in Spain, often involving Inspector Eliseo Avila. Examples include:

• Heide Fittkau: A group in Tenerife was dismantled, suspected of preparing a mass suicide. Fittkau allegedly amassed a fortune from donations.
• Los Elegidos: Santiago C. A., the leader, faced numerous charges including fraud, coercion, and sexual assault. The group was accused of predicting an end-of-the-world scenario.
• Comunidad del Santo Daime: Seven people, including two Brazilian shamans, were arrested for possessing DMT, a hallucinogenic substance. The group is suspected of recruiting members through the use of psychotropic substances.
• Reino de la Luz Resplandeciente: René Henry Spatz, the self-proclaimed Buddha, allegedly amassed a fortune of 5 billion pesetas through his sect.
• Congregación del Olivo: Eleven people were arrested in Alicante and Zaragoza for alleged fraud and enrichment of the leader.

The article also touches upon the historical context of sect investigation in Spain, referencing the first police report on Jehovah's Witnesses in 1957 and the work of Inspector-chief Isidoro Sánchez in compiling information on sect investigations.

Hablan las víctimas

This section presents personal accounts of individuals affected by sects:

• Xavier Mas: Describes his experience with the Doce Tribus, where he was drawn in by promises of spirituality and harmony, only to be subjected to intense indoctrination and labor.
• Jesús Domínguez do Camiño: His wife became involved with Jehovah's Witnesses, leading to family breakdown.
• The article mentions a case where a police officer was deeply involved with a sect, leading to tragic consequences, including the murder of his baby and his own suicide.

It also highlights the case of Andy A., a Nigerian preacher who led the evangelical sect "Armadura de Dios" and used it as a front for trafficking women. This case links the issue of sects with illegal immigration networks.

Inmigración: el factor determinante

This section discusses how immigration from Latin America has led to the introduction of new evangelical sects in Spain, such as the cult led by Jose Luis de Jesús Miranda, who uses the number 666 as a symbol. Spain is seen as a key entry point for these groups due to linguistic and cultural similarities with Latin American communities.

Las sectas del siglo XXI

Beyond Asian, Latin American, and African cults, sects of Arab origin are raising alarms. The article mentions Harun Yahya, accused by Turkish authorities of leading an international sect that used young Arab women to recruit new followers. Despite accusations, his books and videos, which deny evolution and promote anti-Zionism, are found in Spanish mosques.

Sectas y policía: entre el derecho y el delito

Angel Muñoz, leader of "la secta de Picassent," faces accusations of fraud and extortion, with a potential prison sentence of up to 11 years. He allegedly amassed a fortune from donations. The article notes that this is not the first case of a sect leader being arrested in Spain.

Comic: El “detective de lo imposible” en las pantallas españolas

This section introduces the comic character Martin Mystere, created by Alfredo Castelli and designed by Giancarlo Alessandrini. Mystere is an investigator of inexplicable phenomena, with a background in anthropology, archaeology, and art history. The article details his personality, his relationships (particularly with Diana Lombard), his unique companion Java (a Neanderthal), and his adversaries, such as Sergej Orloff and the "Men in Black." It also mentions Mister Jinx, a "technological devil," and the comedic duo Dee and Kelly. The section highlights Mystere's intellectual approach, his reliance on evidence, and his role as a cultural ambassador through his media presence.

Ufología: ¿12 km perseguido por un “foo-fighter”? Incidente OVNI en el Valle del Sarrón

This article recounts a UFO sighting that occurred on March 1, 1993, in the Valle del Sarrón. The witness reported being followed for 12 kilometers by a red-orange light sphere, described as a "foo-fighter," which exhibited unusual movements and speeds. The object disappeared and reappeared several times before vanishing over the Peña Sanctuary near Graus. The witness described the sphere as approximately half a meter in size with a flickering light.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of EOC magazine revolve around the pervasive and evolving nature of dangerous sects in Spain, the challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating and combating them, and the increasing reliance on the internet for recruitment and operations. The magazine also explores the intersection of sects with immigration and the global spread of new religious movements. The editorial stance appears to be one of concern and advocacy for victims, urging for greater awareness, investigation, and preventive measures against sectarianism and psychological manipulation. The inclusion of UFO phenomena and a popular comic character suggests an interest in broader mysteries and popular culture alongside the core investigative journalism.

This issue of Paranorma, identified by its cover as issue number 41, focuses on paranormal phenomena and investigations. The cover story features Isabel Cristina Avila, a Chilean psychic from Chimbarongo, who claims to know the fate of Madeleine McCann. The magazine also includes articles on scientific research into near-death experiences, profiles of paranormal investigators and authors, and reports on various alleged paranormal events and hoaxes.

The Psychic of Chimbarongo: Isabel Cristina Avila

The lead article introduces Isabel Cristina Avila, a psychic from Chimbarongo, Chile, who claims to have extraordinary powers to locate missing persons and even determine if they are deceased. Avila, who describes herself as a parapsychologist and iridologist, charges $40 per consultation and states she does not charge desperate families. She claims to work with energies and to receive signals, though she admits she 'perceives much but sees nothing.' Her career gained traction through media appearances, including a radio program where she diagnoses listeners' ailments based on their birth dates. Her motivation stems from the death of her son, Jacob, in a tractor accident.

Avila has been involved in several high-profile cases, including the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, for which she declared the child deceased. She also claimed to have assisted the Chilean Army in locating soldiers lost in a snowstorm in Antuco, though the military used radar for the search. She has also been credited with finding missing individuals like Santiago Errázuriz and Gloria Iturriaga, though the article notes her past 'stumbles' and her tendency to blame 'mental blocks' for failures.

Science Explores the Beyond: The 'Aware' Project

This section discusses the 'Aware' project, an international study led by the University of Southampton, which aims to scientifically investigate near-death experiences (NDEs) and the nature of consciousness during clinical death. The project involves doctors and physicists studying the relationship between the brain and consciousness. Dr. Sam Parnia, the project director, explains that death is a process, not a single moment, and that the period following cardiac arrest offers a unique window into understanding what happens at the moment of death. The research utilizes advanced technologies to study the brain and consciousness, and also validates experiences of individuals who claim to have 'seen' and 'heard' during clinical death.

Editorial and Publisher News

Several short pieces cover news within the paranormal and investigative community. Paco Contreras is highlighted for his work as an editor, launching the Aladena publishing project and reissuing his own books. Marcelino Requejo is mentioned for his upcoming book on ufology, and the publisher Cydonia is praised for its charitable contributions. The article 'Existió otra humanidad... hace 33 años' commemorates the 33rd anniversary of J.J. Benítez's book on the Ica stones. The passing of several figures in the ufology community is noted: Rosita Torrens (a graphologist), Enrique Valls Girol, and Tomas Palácio de la Riba (ufologists linked to Fundación Anomalía). The deaths of Monseñor Conrrado Balducci (an exorcist known for his statements on UFOs) and Jose Fonseca Ferreira (an anthropologist who studied UFOs as a social myth) are also reported.

Investigations and Cases

Antonio Elegido: Figures and Sects

This section briefly mentions Antonio Elegido, a parapsychologist and nephew of Jesuit Oscar Gonzalez Quevedo, who was previously associated with the Partido Humanista and has appeared on television programs.

The Vignati File

This piece revisits the case of Alejandro Vignati, a reporter for 'Mundo Desconocido,' who died under unclear circumstances in a Caracas hotel in 1982. The magazine 'Mundo Desconocido' closed two months after his death. Readers in Venezuela are encouraged to reinvestigate the case.

EOC Most Confidential

This section previews the new season of the radio program 'Espacio en Blanco,' introducing new collaborators and hinting at upcoming topics, including UFO sightings, astral projection experiments, and 'ummitas' calls.

No to Bigfoot

A CNN International poll indicates that 58% of respondents do not believe in Bigfoot.

The Photo

This section notes that Iker Jiménez and Javier Sierra are now considered the most prominent mystery divulgators in Spain, surpassing figures like Fernando Jiménez del Ojo and J.J. Benítez.

Incident on the Road (1st Survey)

This detailed report describes an alleged UFO encounter by Silvestre C., a 47-year-old traveling salesman, on the N-120 highway in Spain in late September 2006. He reported seeing two parallel lines of lights and an enormous clarity, experiencing a sensation of euphoria, and feeling his car move freely while remaining on a straight path. He also noted a discrepancy of 60-70 kilometers on his odometer. The incident is compared to the 'Galician Wave' of UFO sightings in 1995-1996.

Announcements and Book Reviews

Notice to Andalusian Ufologists

An offer is made to identify UFO sightings in the El Arenosillo area between 1966 and 1994, potentially linking them to military rocket launches.

The Investigator's Library

• Reviews of several books are presented:
• "Los fraudes espiritistas y los fenómenos metapsíquicos" by C. M. Heredia, a classic on spiritualism and metapsychics.
• "The Satanic Bible" by Anton Szandor LaVey, founder of the Church of Satan.
• "Ars Secreta" by Javier García Blanco, which explores hermetic and occult symbology in art.

The 9th Anomaly on CD

Fundación Anomalía releases its digital bulletin on CD, featuring articles on '2001: A Space Odyssey,' the Carvalho case, and a critique of J. Sierra's treatment of the Manises case.

Crops Circles: The "Reondos" of Ronda

This investigative report details the police investigation into a geometric figure that appeared in a wheat field near Ronda, Spain, in June 2008. The figure lacked the typical characteristics of genuine crop circles, such as perfect symmetry or magnetic alterations. The police report concluded that the marks were the product of a hoax, likely created by a local resident. The case was closed, and the 'reondos' disappeared from the fields.

Latest News: Sarah Palin Too...

A brief mention of a 'corp circle' appearing in Ohio, USA, resembling the face of vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin, linking it to the 'crops circles' phenomenon.

Obituary: Miguel Ángel Poblete, the Vidente of Peñablanca

This extensive article details the life and death of Miguel Ángel Poblete, known as the 'vidente of Peñablanca,' who died at age 42 from multiple organ failure due to cirrhosis. Poblete gained fame in the 1980s for claiming to see the Virgin Mary. The article discusses his difficult childhood, his claims of sex change attributed to divine intervention, and his later involvement in a sect called 'Los Apóstoles de Dios.' It also touches upon alleged manipulation by the CNI (Chilean intelligence service) and the Church. His transformation into Karola Romanoff is described, along with his later years marked by loneliness and a sense of abandonment.

Investigations of Field Cases that Resolve Paranormal Cases: The 10 Best Critical Investigations

This section presents a list of 10 highly regarded critical investigations into paranormal phenomena, with links to blog posts or documents for each case. The cases cover a wide range of topics, including alleged frauds, UFO sightings, mysterious objects, and unexplained events. Examples include 'The Utrera Case: The Fraud of A. Sánchez Payán,' 'The Fraud of the Nazi UFOs,' 'The Mystery of Abydos Resolved,' and 'The Case of the Cursed Coffin.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards paranormal claims, aiming to debunk hoaxes and provide rational explanations. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena, the editorial focus is on rigorous investigation, scientific inquiry, and exposing fraudulent claims. The magazine features a mix of investigative reports, book reviews, and news from the paranormal community, often highlighting the skepticism of researchers and the media's role in sensationalizing or debunking such events. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine mystery and deliberate deception or misinterpretation.

Title: El Ojo Crítico
Issue: 57
Date: November 2008 (inferred from page 2 content)
Publisher: N/A
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of El Ojo Crítico delves into the Madeleine McCann disappearance case, presenting a critical examination of information provided by psychics and contrasting it with on-the-ground investigation and theories from law enforcement.

Contrastamos la información de los videntes en Portugal: Apuntes sobre el caso Madeleine Mccam

The main article focuses on the disappearance of Madeleine McCann on May 3, 2007, from the Ocean Club apartments in Praia da Luz, Portugal. The apartment where she vanished is noted as being up for sale. The article highlights that over 1,000 psychics claimed to have information, but only 150 provided concrete data to the police, with just 15 being verified. Only five psychics traveled to Portugal, and only one from Spain collaborated with the detective agency Metodo-3, hired by the McCann family. Despite these efforts, Madeleine has not been found.

The author recounts receiving an email from a psychic named Emilce, who claimed to have worked deeply on the case and collaborated with Metodo-3. Emilce stated she had found everything she was looking for and that many things were being hidden, including by the Portuguese police. She alleged that Madeleine was dead and that her parents were involved in her death and disappearance. The magazine states it can attest to Emilce's claims but notes that these cannot be definitively proven without a court conviction against the McCanns or the discovery of Madeleine's body. It also questions whether Emilce's insights were genuine psychic abilities or derived from privileged information gained through her collaboration with Metodo-3.

Emilce provided emails exchanged with Metodo-3, suggesting a prior relationship, and a video reconstructing her 'perceptions' of the night of the disappearance. The article also references Inspector Gonzalo Amaral's book, "A verdade da mentira," published in July of the same year, which presents a theory aligning with Emilce's claims. However, the author acknowledges that Amaral's theory was already shared by numerous websites, blogs, and forums prior to the book's publication.

On-Site Investigation in Praia da Luz

Following Emilce's suggestions, the magazine's team traveled to Praia da Luz, Portugal. They assert that international press reports often fail to fully explain the case without visiting the location. The article clarifies that the Ocean Club complex, where the McCanns were staying, is not a single, contiguous area. The apartments and the restaurant where the parents were located are separated by two walls and a corridor. While the direct distance is about 100 meters, one must navigate a larger perimeter, losing sight of the disappearance location.

During a clandestine visit to the McCanns' apartment, the investigators observed that the back entrance (which was unlocked) offered a view of the gazebo where the parents were. However, a 90 cm wall, partially obscured by plants, could have allowed a hypothetical abductor to enter the apartment unseen by crouching slightly.

Investigating Praia da Luz streets at 10:00 PM, the time of the official disappearance, the team found the area to be very quiet, with residents (primarily German and English tourists) retiring early. This supports the possibility that an abductor could move around with a child unnoticed.

Time and Logistics of Abduction

Chronometric tests were conducted to determine the time required to transport the child out of the country. The article states that driving at speeds not exceeding 120 km/h, it takes exactly 1 hour and 18 minutes to reach the nearest border crossing into Huelva, Spain, from the McCanns' apartment. Considering the official timeline, which states police were not notified until 40 minutes after the disappearance, plus the time for officers to arrive, it is plausible that a hypothetical abductor could have taken Madeleine out of Portugal before the police even reached the apartment.

The magazine promises to provide further information on the case in its next issue.

Other Content and Editorial Notes

Page 2 displays covers of previous issues of "El Ojo Crítico," highlighting its focus on investigative research, paranormal phenomena, and historical mysteries. It advertises upcoming celebrations for "60 numbers and 15 years of EOC" and provides the website www.ojo-critico.blogspot.com. An interview with Nacho Ares, director of Revista de Arqueología, about "Pharaonic Egypt" is also mentioned, suggesting a broader scope of interest beyond UFOs and paranormal events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

El Ojo Crítico positions itself as a publication that critically examines controversial topics, particularly those related to the paranormal, UFOs, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to favor investigative journalism that goes beyond official narratives, often collaborating with individuals who claim unique insights, such as psychics or independent investigators. The editorial stance seems to be one of skepticism towards official accounts and a willingness to explore alternative theories, while also attempting to verify information through on-site investigation and logical analysis. The publication emphasizes the importance of independent research and critical thinking in understanding complex cases.