Los Identificados- No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: LOS IDENTIFICADOS
Issue: III
Volume: III
Date: Julio 1993
Publisher: CEFAI
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish
Cover Headline: -casuística ovni con ocupantes en Argentina-

This issue of "Los Identificados" delves into UFO phenomena involving occupants, with a strong emphasis on cases from Argentina. The publication features an editorial by Dr. Roberto Banchs, reflecting on the "II Conferência Internacional de Ufologia" held in Curitiba, Brazil, in June 1993. The conference, which also included the "XI Congresso Brasileiro de Ufologia Científica," brought together numerous ufologists and researchers. Dr. Banchs, invited as a special speaker representing Argentina, notes the significant attendance and the diverse range of thought within Brazilian ufology, from spiritualist to rationalist approaches.

Editorial: Congreso de Ufología

Dr. Banchs highlights the "II Conferência Internacional de Ufologia" as a major event in Brazil, preceded by similar conferences in Brasília (1983) and São Paulo (1979). He describes the Curitiba event as a gathering of over 400 people in the magnificent Auditório do Edifício Castelo Branco. The conference was supported by numerous official bodies. Banchs observes that the current focus in ufological research, mirroring global trends, is on abduction, with speculative theories suggesting mass abductions, micro-system implants, and genetic manipulation to create a new race. He contrasts this with earlier decades, which focused on visible craft or extrasensory contacts.

The editorial touches upon the shift towards a more 'paranoid' component in ufology, involving control and programming of the human species, possibly influenced by advancements in computing and genetic engineering. This new paradigm suggests that extraterrestrials are not distant but are actively influencing human minds, leading to a form of global possession. The potential psychological effects on abductees are described as feelings of persecution, depersonalization, loss of reality judgment, and various sensory and cognitive disturbances.

Key Figures and Presentations at the Conference

Budd Hopkins, executive director of the Intruders Foundation, presented a controversial case of abduction in the United States, involving multiple witnesses including police and a diplomat. Banchs notes that Hopkins' presentation lacked the full disclosure of witness identities, which would have strengthened his investigation. The conference also featured discussions on extraterrestrial influence and government secrecy, with mentions of Milton Cooper's conspiracy theories and William Moore's accusations against the US government.

Dr. Banchs recounts private conversations with Hopkins, who discussed the significant number of alleged abductees in the US (3.7 million) and the presence of micro-systems in their heads. Hopkins' response to the idea of extraterrestrial control was a simple, "They don't like that idea."

Banchs was responsible for the closing session, advocating for serenity and reflection. He proposed shifting the cultural axiom from 'UFO-extraterrestrial' to a more empirical and rational hypothesis, urging that UFO phenomena should not be treated as a matter of faith or veneration, but as an ongoing question for humanity, requiring a reflexive attitude.

Other presentations included work by Gilda Moura, a psychologist who described three stages of inner transformation in contactees and abductees, which Banchs noted bore resemblance to psychotic progression. Daniel Rebisso Glese presented research on 'extraterrestrial vampirism' in the Amazon, and Encarnación Zapata discussed human mutilation cases. Marcos Silva and Edison Boaventura Jr. explored new ufological perspectives and the spiritual dimension of the phenomenon.

The absence of Ademar J. Gevaerd, coordinator of CBPDV, was noted. However, other notable researchers present included Arisnaris Baraldi Dias, Marco Antonio Petit, Adenar Eugênio de Mello, and Luiz Gonzaga Scortecci de Paula.

Case Study: Victoria (ER): Caso en el Hogar Gral. San Martin

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed case from Victoria, Entre Ríos, Argentina, involving multiple witnesses at the Hogar General San Martin. The events began around July 23, 1991, following reports of luminous phenomena. The town of Victoria experienced a surge of interest and tourism related to UFO sightings.

On August 13, 1991, at approximately 10 PM, several individuals at the Hogar General San Martin reported observing two lights that moved erratically. These lights descended, and two dark figures, described as human-like but with unusual features, were seen walking without touching the ground. The object itself was described as a white, pot-like craft. The witnesses included Roberto Pérez (a resident of the Hogar), and caretakers Miguel Angel Dionisio, Fidel René, and Carlos Gabirondo.

Roberto Pérez, a 21-year-old resident, described seeing two colored lights that formed a triangle before a single light descended. He saw two black shadows that moved without touching the asphalt, appearing as normal men with strong yellow and red lights emanating from them. He later described the object as white and pot-shaped. Pérez expressed a desire for contact and stated that he had not felt fear, only astonishment.

Miguel Ángel Dionisio, the economic secretary of the Hogar, corroborated the sighting of two lights that moved in a circle. He observed one light emerge closer, about 5,000 meters away, and descend, leaving a trail. He described a strong white light at ground level and observed what appeared to be two pairs of legs moving as if in a state of gravity. Dionisio noted that the object and figures were observed for about 4 minutes.

Fidel René, a 58-year-old caretaker, also witnessed two lights and figures. He mentioned that the figures appeared to be of normal height and walked slowly. He did not observe the semicircular turn or the rapid ascent that others reported.

Carlos Gabirondo, who tragically passed away shortly after the event, was reported to have seen two pairs of legs and observed the figures walking slowly. He was particularly interested in UFOs and had been actively seeking information.

The case is presented with sketches by the witnesses and includes notes from a psychologist, Lic. Silvia C. Andretta, who co-participated in the article. The testimonies, while generally consistent, show some variations, particularly regarding the details of the figures and the object's movements. The article also includes reflections on the potential origins and intentions of these beings, questioning whether they are extraterrestrial, human-made, or something else entirely.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the presence of UFO occupants, the phenomenon of abduction, and the evolving scientific and psychological interpretations of these events. The editorial stance, as articulated by Dr. Banchs, leans towards a rational and empirical investigation of ufology, encouraging a critical yet open-minded approach. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine experiences and potential psychological phenomena or hoaxes. The article highlights the growing interest in ufology in Argentina and Brazil, and the challenges faced by researchers in presenting credible evidence and theories. The issue advocates for a move away from treating UFOs as objects of faith and towards understanding them as a complex phenomenon requiring rigorous study and reflexive consideration.

This issue of "UFO: Documentos de lo Insólito" (UFO: Documents of the Unexplained) presents a detailed investigation into two significant cases, focusing on witness testimonies, potential psychological interpretations, and the analysis of anomalous aerial phenomena. The publication appears to be from Argentina, given the locations mentioned.

Case 1: Pampa de Agnia Accident (1978)

The Journey and Initial Sighting The issue details an incident involving two drivers, Alfredo Gianonni and Jorge Castillo, who were transporting four drums of ink from Trelew to Esquel via Route 25 in Chubut, Argentina, on October 12, 1978. They were driving Ford F-100 pickup trucks. Around 10-15 km past Las Plumas, in the Valle Los Altares, Castillo noticed a small light in the sky that grew in intensity and moved erratically. He stopped to consult Gianonni, who identified it as a "flying saucer."

The Encounter and Accident Gianonni, driving ahead, reached the Los Altares service station before Castillo. Upon Castillo's arrival, he was initially upset about being left behind, but Gianonni explained he had only arrived 10 minutes prior. After refueling and having a meal, they resumed their journey around 2:15 AM on October 13. During the drive, Gianonni began experiencing severe headache and decided to stop. As Castillo pulled up, both drivers observed an object approximately 3 meters in diameter, intensely white and phosphorescent, hovering about a meter above the ground and 10 meters from the witnesses. The object emitted a faint sound like a teletype. Castillo retreated to his truck, while Gianonni, though disoriented, managed to drive away. The object then ascended and disappeared. Castillo, driving behind Gianonni, reported seeing "two square things" on the back of Gianonni's truck, possibly observing the ink drums. He also described seeing "humanoid figures" walking on the road and mountains that seemed to close in on him.

Conflicting Accounts and Analysis Later, Castillo reported seeing four "two things, square, in the back of the truck" and later "four square figures" seemingly looking at the ink drums. He also described seeing a "grey oval cloud" accompanying his vehicle. Gianonni, however, did not report seeing any occupants or figures. The article notes that the ink drums were found to be more fluid than usual after the incident, a detail that was reportedly altered when the ink was delivered. A manager from a Ford dealership in Esquel, Salim Bestene, confirmed that both trucks were being brought from Buenos Aires and that the accident was a "common rollover," contradicting Castillo's description of the vehicle being lifted and flipped without damage. Bestene suggested that Gianonni, who had not driven for a while, might have fallen asleep at the wheel due to fatigue. The analysis suggests that the "humanoid figures" might have been illusions created by the ink drums or psychological projections influenced by stress and the environment.

Case 2: Roberto Pérez Testimony and Analysis

The Witness and the Phenomenon The issue also presents an analysis of the testimony of Roberto Pérez, a young man living in the Hogar General San Martin. Pérez claims to have witnessed a bright, natural light that illuminated the area and then descended. He described seeing two pairs of legs descending from the light, suggesting human-sized individuals. He observed no object, only the light and the legs. He and three other witnesses were present, and he felt that the experience was a sign or prophecy.

Psychological Interpretation The article explores the psychological impact of the sighting on Pérez. It suggests that his experience, though shared, made him a "protagonist," giving him recognition and a sense of existence. The analysis posits that his description of seeing "two complete persons" might represent a subconscious filling of a void, possibly related to his absent parents. The author suggests that the phenomenon might have served as a catalyst for latent psychological content to manifest.

Other Testimonies and Analysis Miguel Dionisio, another witness, provided a more detailed account, describing a phenomenon that was not entirely unexpected for him, as he had previously stated, "I have to see it to believe it." He also mentioned his daughter's interest in UFOs. Fidel René, an evangelist, interpreted the sighting as a confirmation of his faith and a sign of divine prophecy. The analysis of these testimonies highlights how individual beliefs, desires for recognition, and psychological needs can shape the perception and interpretation of anomalous events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of witness testimonies, and the exploration of psychological and sociological factors that may influence these experiences. The magazine seems to adopt a critical yet open-minded approach, presenting detailed accounts while also offering interpretations that consider the subjective nature of perception and the potential for psychological projection. The editorial stance appears to favor a grounded analysis, acknowledging the possibility of genuine anomalous events while also scrutinizing the evidence and considering alternative explanations, including psychological and environmental influences. The article emphasizes that "ufology is not a science" but draws from various disciplines to study anomalous aerial manifestations, aiming to identify the unidentified.

This issue of Revista Espacio, published in the first quarter of 1969, focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring detailed investigations and witness testimonies from various locations in Argentina. The magazine presents a collection of intriguing cases, aiming to shed light on unexplained aerial events.

Article 1: Gianonni and Castillo Incident (Near Esquel)

This section details an incident involving Alfredo Gianonni and Jorge Castillo. Gianonni, initially reluctant to discuss the matter, eventually recounted his experiences. He stated he had been working as a supply manager in Buenos Aires after residing in Esquel. The primary event described is the overturning of a vehicle, which Castillo reportedly explained as the vehicle 'literally flying into the air about 2 meters from the pavement.' Gianonni expressed bewilderment at how he emerged unharmed from the accident, which occurred suddenly. The report also touches upon a curious detail regarding the fluidity of ink transported in twenty-liter tanks, which was reportedly more fluid than usual. However, an inquiry with Oreste Massacese, secretary of the Esquel newspaper, and several operators, found no change in the ink compared to previous shipments. The article speculates that fatigue, nervousness, and external stimuli might have contributed to extraordinary visions, possibly stemming from a 'great fear of the unknown,' though Jorge Castillo himself hinted that perhaps 'it wasn't just visions.'

Key Incident Details:

• Date: Thursday, November 12 (year not specified, but context suggests around the time of the Esquel incident).
• Witnesses: J. Castillo and A. Gianonni.
• Route: Trelew to Esquel.
• Events: Castillo reported seeing a small light, then Gianonni saw it too. Later, Gianonni's truck reportedly went airborne. During the journey, Castillo observed strange beings on the truck's cargo area and later saw two beings on the road. Castillo became exhausted, experiencing a headache and paralysis, and hid under blankets. The truck eventually veered off the road, and they arrived in Esquel around 6-6:15 AM.

Article 2: Coronel Pringles: A Disc with Strange Figures

This article reports on an event that occurred on December 5, 1954, as published in the newspaper 'La Razón.' The witness, Enrique Aguirrezabala, an employee from Buenos Aires on vacation at his brother's farm near Coronel Pringles, observed a luminous disc that changed shape into a cigar. The object stopped about 80 meters away, and Aguirrezabala attempted to approach it but was prevented by irradiations that caused him to be blinded. He described the object as hovering half a meter above the ground, with a strange figure inside, appearing to have a large head. The object then rapidly ascended and disappeared to the north. The article notes that the newspaper 'El Tribuno' of Coronel Pringles did not publish any information about this event at the time, despite frequent articles on UFOs and spiritualism.

Investigation and Witness Account:

Américo Rodolfo Aguirrezabala, who was 32 at the time, confirmed the event. He was on his way to his brother Pedro's farm on December 4, 1954, between 6 and 7 AM. He noticed a 'round' object, reddish-pale, about 20-30 meters in diameter, hovering 15 meters above the ground. It was silent and transparent. He exclaimed, 'Finally, I've seen it!' He described seeing three figures inside, two of whom were in constant motion. He could not discern details like eyes or ears, only the silhouettes of walking figures. The phenomenon disappeared instantly, as if by magic. Aguirrezabala stated that the event did not physically affect him, and his life remained unchanged. He also mentioned a later experience in a cornfield at his home. He recounted telling his brother and others, who were skeptical. He believes the newspaper report originated from conversations at the local store.

Object Characteristics:

• Shape: Round, later cigar-shaped.
• Color: Reddish-pale.
• Size: Estimated 20-30 meters in diameter.
• Altitude: Approximately 15 meters from the ground.
• Behavior: Hovering, ascending rapidly, sudden disappearance.
• Occupants: Three figures, two in constant motion, described as silhouettes.
• Other: Silent, transparent, emitted blinding irradiations.

Article 3: Barrio Cofico, Salta: A Strange Nocturnal Scene

This article details an incident that occurred on September 6, 1964, at 9 PM, in Barrio Cofico, Salta. Chafredo Dagotto reported seeing a brilliant light that momentarily blinded him. He observed a mobile craft that briefly hovered over a post, with two blurry figures inside, before ascending and moving away. The newspaper 'El Tribuno' reported Dagotto's address and his assertion that the event was a 'flying saucer or something similar.' The article notes that this episode was never investigated, and no other versions were known, except for a mention in Gordon Creighton's 'The humanoids.'

Investigation and Witness Background:

An investigation in 1987 to gather more data led to Dagotto's former residence, but neighbors could not provide information due to the passage of time. Further inquiries in 1993 in Buenos Aires and Córdoba suggested Dagotto was part of a family originally from Naples, Italy. Relatives described him as an 'irascible, strange, solitary, very quiet man, quite brutish though wealthy.' He reportedly lived in Alta Córdoba and moved to Salta around 1960. No further information was found.

Article 4: Estación Hume: A UFO with Figures

This section recounts a curious UFO episode that became known through the magazine 'Espacio' in the late 1960s. The incident occurred during the first week of November (year not specified, but context suggests late 1960s) in Estación Hume, near Rosario. A group of witnesses, whose names were not published, reported seeing an elongated object, described as a large inverted basin surrounded by a powerful red light. The object was observed hovering at an altitude of approximately 200 meters. The witnesses saw four shadows of medium stature inside, described as moving and having a human-like form. The object then performed an abrupt turn and disappeared at incredible speed, leaving a white trail. The witnesses were interviewed separately and gave consistent explanations. One witness was blinded by the object's intense glare when trying to observe it from a neighboring house's roof.

Investigation and Conclusion:

The article states that the 'UFO investigation department of the AOA (Association of Observers of Stars)' authenticated the case. However, subsequent attempts to gather more information, starting in 1984, were largely unsuccessful. The director of 'Espacio' and the AOA, Guillermo Aldunati, initially recalled the case but could not locate the data. Later communications indicated that the case was investigated by Luis Reinoso, but a book by Reinoso only partially reproduced the article with some errors. The investigation faced difficulties, including the witnesses being on vacation during the initial inquiry. The article concludes that due to the lack of corroborative testimonies and adequate investigation at the time, the case presents insufficient data for a definitive evaluation.

Key Incident Details:

• Date: First week of November (year unspecified, likely late 1960s).
• Location: Estación Hume, near Rosario, Argentina.
• Witnesses: A group of unnamed witnesses.
• Object Description: Elongated, like a large inverted basin, surrounded by a red light, approximately 200 meters altitude.
• Occupants: Four shadows of medium stature, human-like form, moving inside.
• Behavior: Hovering, abrupt turn, incredible speed, disappeared, leaving a white trail.
• Other: Intense glare that blinded a witness.

Article 5: Investigation into the Estación Hume Case

This section details the ongoing efforts to investigate the Estación Hume sighting. The author recounts attempts to gather more information since 1984, including contacting Guillermo Aldunati. Aldunati initially had limited recall but later mentioned that the case was investigated by Luis Reinoso. A book by Reinoso is cited, which partially reproduces the original article with errors. The investigation faced challenges, including the witnesses being on vacation during the initial inquiry in 1968. The author expresses skepticism about a 'pact of silence' among the witnesses and parents, suggesting that the events were likely too significant to be forgotten. However, without corroborative evidence and acknowledging the inadequacy of the initial investigation, the author concludes that the case remains insufficient for a definitive evaluation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are unexplained aerial phenomena, witness testimonies, and the challenges of investigating UFO cases. The magazine presents detailed accounts of sightings, including descriptions of objects, their occupants, and their behavior. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts while also acknowledging the limitations and difficulties in verifying such events. The magazine emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation and corroboration, even while recognizing the intriguing nature of the reported phenomena. The cases presented span several decades, highlighting the persistent nature of UFO reports in Argentina.