Probe Report Volume 3 Issue 3

Magazine Overview

Title: THE PROBE REPORT
Issue: Vol 3; No 3.
Date: January 1983
Publisher: PROBE UFO INVESTIGATION ORGANISATION
Country: ENGLAND
Editor: Ian Mrzyglod

This issue of The Probe Report, subtitled 'JOURNAL OF UFO INVESTIGATION', focuses heavily on the 'Man-in-Black' phenomenon and the challenges faced by UFO researchers. The cover features a stark image of a silhouetted figure holding a sign that reads 'CEASE UFO STUDY OR ELSE', set against a city backdrop, with prominent headlines "MAN-IN-BLACK REALITY" and "IN THE WESTCOUNTRY".

Editorial Stance and Editorial Content

The editorial, written by Ian Mrzyglod, addresses the difficulties in pursuing truth in ufology, noting that 'someone always gets upset no matter what is said or by whom.' He reflects on PROBE's evolution from its early days, emulating the work of SCUFORI (Swindon Centre for UFO Research and Investigation). Initially, PROBE, like many other groups, would publish all reports, but rigorous investigation led to many 'UFOs' being identified as mundane objects like balloons or aircraft. Mrzyglod criticizes those who accuse PROBE of operating a cover-up or being anti-UFO when they provide plausible explanations. He references Jenny Randles' 'OZ Factor' theory, which suggests subjective experiences can cause UFO sightings, and notes the hostile reaction this received from some in the UFO community. The editorial emphasizes the need to delve deeper for the truth, even if it upsets former allies, and states that PUFORG no longer supports their work, deeming their 'mystery circles' work 'tedious'. The core message is that thorough investigation and honest reporting are crucial to the field of ufology, and that explaining away sightings does not serve the authorities' amusement.

Article: CASE CLOSED SPECIAL - THE ALIEN AMONGST US by Martin Shipp

This article details the 'Man-In-Black' (MIB) syndrome, a phenomenon that has allegedly plagued UFO investigators for years, leading some to abandon their work due to threats. While these incidents were often thought to occur in the US, this case brings the issue to the Westcountry. The article highlights the case of Albert K. Bender, an American UFO researcher who founded the International Flying Saucer Bureau (IFSB) in 1952. The IFSB, which had branches worldwide, including in Britain, suddenly closed down. Bender claimed he was threatened by MIBs to stop revealing his knowledge of UFOs. In 1953, after securing what he believed were the final pieces of his theory on UFO origins, Bender wrote down his thesis. The next day, three men dressed in black visited him, confirmed he had the answer to the UFO enigma, gave him additional information, and ordered him to close the IFSB and remain silent. Bender described them as 'pretty rough'.

The article notes that Bender was not the only investigator targeted. Edgar Jarrold, organizer of the Australian Flying Saucer Bureau, also reported being visited by MIBs who persuaded him to stop his research. Researchers suggest hundreds have experienced similar 'ominous' strangers. Other methods of deterrence included mysterious telephone calls, such as those received by Jack Robinson, editor of SAUCER NEWS in 1967, who reported receiving calls from a non-human electronic voice warning him to stop saucer research. Robert Stiff, editor of SAUCER SCOOP, was also harassed by telephone calls warning him to cease investigations into a particular case.

The article posits that MIB visits and threats were common in the 1950s-60s, a period when ufologists widely believed UFOs were alien spaceships. Today, such reports are rare. The article then shifts to a 1980 Men-in-Black-type case that affected the Swindon Centre for UFO Research and Investigation (SCUFORI), a six-member group. SCUFORI, known for its objective, down-to-Earth approach, initially dismissed the threats as the work of a crank. On August 18, 1980, SCUFORI member Charles Affleck found a wrinkled plastic bag containing a message: "CEASE UFO STUDY DO NOT MEDDLE OR ELSE", written in yellow fluorescent ink with Arabic-style squiggles. The group initially thought it was a joke but soon realized it was serious.

Two days later, another message arrived, postmarked Swindon, stating: "BEWARE WE ARE WATCHING YOU ALL DO NOT INTERFERE WE WILL MENOT". This was followed by telephone calls consisting of 'bleeps' and 'weird electronic noises'. SCUFORI decided not to go to the authorities, fearing they would not be taken seriously. They responded by leaving a message asking who the senders were and what they wanted. A third message arrived on September 3rd, again from Swindon, mentioning a meeting and protection.

On October 5th, SCUFORI members went to a designated map reference to leave a tape-recorded reply. While searching the area, they heard a loud bang, followed by shouting and rustling in the woods. They discovered someone had been shooting pigeons at 11:00 pm. Later, a recorded telephone call contained gibberish and bleeps, but after repeated listening, the word "PRIMITIVE" was discerned, followed by a message: "YOU ARE PRIMITIVE WE ARE HERE. TO WATCH YOU YOU THINK YOU CAN DO WHAT YOU LIKE..... WE WILL JUDGE WHAT WE WANT. YOU ARE TOO CLOSE."

SCUFORI reported the incidents to the police, who were uninterested. A subsequent message stated: "DO NOT GO TO THE AUTHORITIES AGAIN OR ELSE". The group then decided to solve the problem themselves. They left a written message asking for contact and details of a meeting. On September 7th, they placed a cassette case with their questions into a fencepost. The following day, another telephone call was received, clearer this time, stating: "YOU DO NOT TAKE US SERIOUSLY WE ARE WATCHING YOU WE ARE WATCHING YOU NOW WE ARE WATCHING YOUR CARS WE KNOW YOUR NAMES". Charles interrupted to mention their message, but the call ended abruptly.

On October 18th, SCUFORI members went to a map reference near Avebury and found a cassette case containing a blank paper with the instruction: "THIS MESSAGE USE U/V LIGHT". Under ultraviolet light, the message revealed: "WE WILL MEET AT DESIGNATED PLACE TWO REPRESENTATIVES TO BE CHOSEN WEAR PROTECTION TAPE REPLY PLACE TAPE EXACT MAP REFERENCE 172*5816".

On October 31st (Halloween), SCUFORI members went to a location identified as Westwood. While in the woods, they saw a white shape move across their path and vanish. A week later, a noise was heard, and a crumpled envelope was found containing a blank paper. Under UV light, the message read: "HALLOWEEN". This suggested they were meant to meet at the map reference given in the telephone call on Halloween. The group continued to receive threatening telephone calls, and the messages became increasingly harsh, indicating they were being watched and their names were known.

Introducing...

This section announces that from the January 1983 issue, THE PROBE REPORT will be distributed to all BUFORA members as part of their membership subscription. Subscribers who are also BUFORA members are advised to contact the publication for a proportionate refund. The journal will now be published quarterly in January, April, July, and October. The editor apologizes for an error in the previous issue where pages 11 and 12 were numbered incorrectly. Due to the editor's absence in April, the April issue will be published in early March.

Contents

• The contents page lists the following articles:
• CASE CLOSED SPECIAL: THE ALIEN AMONGST US (Martin Shipp) - Page 3
• SIGNALS - LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Page 14
• THE CURIOUS OBJECT DOWN ON BIRDFIELD FARM (Jenny Randles) - Page 15
• BOOK REVIEWS - Page 18

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the challenges of UFO investigation, the persistence of the Man-in-Black phenomenon, and the importance of rigorous, evidence-based research. The editorial stance, as articulated by Ian Mrzyglod, is one of unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth, even when it leads to conflict with other groups or individuals within the UFO community. The publication prioritizes objective analysis and explanation over maintaining the 'mystery' for its own sake. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and those that can be identified through careful investigation, a stance that has led to friction with organizations like PUFORG. The issue champions a scientific and analytical approach to ufology, advocating for thoroughness and transparency in reporting findings.

This issue of The Probe Report, Volume 3, Number 2, dated December 1982, details two significant investigations undertaken by the SCUFORI (Scientific UFO Committee) group. The first focuses on a complex hoax and harassment campaign directed at SCUFORI members, while the second presents a detailed report on a landing case at Birdfield Farm.

The Raymond Smithers Hoax

The issue begins by recounting the experiences of SCUFORI members who were receiving mysterious telephone messages. These messages, often electronic noises, escalated to threats of destruction if their investigations continued. Initially, the group suspected an inside job, particularly focusing on Raymond, who was not present during the calls but showed interest in electronic gadgets and had found previous messages.

Raymond's behavior raised further suspicion. He produced a photograph of a large, ball-shaped object he claimed to have photographed after it landed, but inconsistencies in his story (the numbering on the polaroid) cast doubt. Another incident involved Raymond claiming a man in dark clothes touched his arm, causing a rash and melting a cassette tape containing the messages.

To catch the perpetrator, SCUFORI devised a trap: a cassette case containing questions was left at a remote location. When this was collected, it was replaced with a device claimed to be a transmitter. The group then set up a camera and flashgun triggered by a micro-switch, hidden near where a new message would be placed. The intention was to photograph whoever collected the message.

Raymond eventually claimed to have been instructed by 'aliens' to move the cassette case, which SCUFORI interpreted as him triggering the trap and attempting to cover his tracks. The camera captured a photograph of Raymond, though the image quality was compromised by weather conditions. Confronted with the evidence, Raymond confessed to being responsible for the messages and the elaborate hoax, admitting he was trying to force the closure of SCUFORI.

The Birdfield Farm Landing Case

The second major section details a landing case at Birdfield Farm, South Yorkshire/Derbyshire border, investigated by Richard Adams and Paul Fuller for BUFORA. The incident occurred on January 21st, 1981, when Mrs A.W., the farm owner, observed a puzzling object on a ploughed field. She described it as tent-like, conical, metallic grey, about 8 feet high, with three white 'blotches' attached in front.

Two days later, J.H., who had an interest in UFOs, visited Mrs A.W. and suggested it was a UFO. They went to the field and discovered traces, including a disturbed area of approximately 11 feet by 11 feet, with furrows crushed and indented, and three depressions about 4 inches deep. The central area showed signs of sifting.

Several other anecdotal events were reported by Mrs A.W., including a 'high-pitched squeak' overhead, flashing lights on a television screen, and a brilliant object with a tail observed from a car. The investigators considered various explanations for the primary object, including a tent, farm equipment, or a meteorological/test balloon. They concluded that Mrs A.W. had witnessed a real primary event involving a solid object, but due to the time elapsed and lack of definitive evidence, they could not classify it beyond 'UNKNOWN'.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Letters to the Editor' section features correspondence from Bob Boyd of PUFORG, who criticizes an article on Warminster UFOs, accusing the editor of bias and a 'cover-up' mentality. The editor responds, defending the magazine's approach and suggesting that some ufologists are stuck in a 'childhood' phase, unable to accept scientific reality.

Steuart Campbell writes to dispute the mingling of George Adamski and Elizabeth Klarer's cases, enclosing an article to 'set the record straight' and stating his belief that there are no genuine contactees.

Eric Morris of PUFOIC informs readers of their plans to investigate a possible abduction case in Devon in January 1983, involving regressive hypnosis performed by a registered hypnotherapist. They also mention oddities on photographs taken during their investigation.

Book Reviews

An extensive review is given to Paul Devereux's book, 'Earth Lights: Towards an Understanding of the UFO Enigma'. The reviewer praises the book as a 'milestone' and a 'most interesting synthesis of ideas', noting Devereux's background in ley hunting and his approach to UFOs. The book posits that many UFO events, excluding contact cases, can be explained by unidentified natural phenomena, such as the piezo-electric effect and ionization in the atmosphere, linking these to locations like Warminster.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a strong editorial stance in favor of rigorous, evidence-based investigation, as seen in the SCUFORI's methodical approach to uncovering the hoax and the detailed analysis of the Birdfield Farm case. The magazine appears critical of sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within ufology, as evidenced by the editor's response to Bob Boyd and the critical review of the Adamski/Klarer cases. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine phenomena and hoaxes or misinterpretations, with a leaning towards natural explanations for many UFO events, termed UAPs (Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena).

This issue of Northern UFO News, reaching its 100th edition, features reviews of several books and publications relevant to the UFO community. The magazine itself has undergone improvements, including litho printing and an expanded page count, and has shed its previously 'awful depressing cover'.

Book Reviews

Earth Lights by Paul Devereux

The review discusses Paul Devereux's book 'Earth Lights', which is presented as a revolutionary work. It moves beyond geological and psychological theories of Earth-fault-induced superfields affecting witnesses and instead proposes a correlation between stone circles and UFO sightings. The book suggests that ancient peoples may have utilized Earth energy and that UFO shapes could be psychokinetically moulded by witnesses from this energy. While acknowledging that many tenets remain unproven and subject to contention, the reviewer, Jenny Randles, finds the argument for an Earth-related natural phenomenon well-established and believes the book effectively displays this realization. Randles also mentions a new British study, code-named GAIA, inspired by Devereux's ideas, which aims to further investigate these concepts through statistical analysis, sky-watches, and experimentation.

The Catalogue of UFO Periodicals by Tom Lind

This publication is described as an essential catalogue for ufologists, listing over 1,100 titles of current and former journals, newsletters, and magazines related to UFOs and associated topics like Ancient Mysteries, the paranormal, the occult, and space exploration. Tom Lind compiled this by contacting numerous sources. The catalogue is not intended for casual reading but is aimed at avid collectors and researchers seeking specific information. It fills a long-existent gap by providing names and addresses of current publications, surpassing other guides. Lind plans to issue updates. The review notes a potential snag in numbering new journals and suggests that PROBE magazine might serve as an outlet for UK readers.

The Science in Science Fiction by Peter Nicholls

This book is praised for its value, lavish illustrations, and comprehensive coverage of concepts found in science fiction. While seemingly unrelated to ufology, the review explains its relevance by noting that many science fiction elements, such as space travel, time travel, ancient astronauts, flying saucers, and alien intelligences, are critically examined. The book applies science to these ideas, effectively demolishing them when not scientifically supported. The section on 'Flying Saucers' is particularly highlighted for its informed analysis of the UFO situation. A significant quote from the book criticizes UFO enthusiasts for prioritizing belief over evidence and perpetuating hoaxes, suggesting that the 'real heart of the UFO phenomenon lies with the uncritical believers'.

Die Nagora Fotoserie by Klaus Webner

This is a privately printed booklet that critically analyzes alleged UFO photographs taken by Rudi Nagora in 1971. Webner conducted his own experiments to reconstruct how the photos might have been conceived, and his results are described as fascinating, shedding light on the validity of the 12-snap series. Although the text is in German, the booklet is recommended for its clear illustrations and Webner's methodology.

The Directory of Possibilities by Colin Wilson and John Grant

This book is presented as an intriguing and frustrating alternative to a dictionary, covering a wide array of topics within seven main areas: Mythology & the Ancient World, The Occult & the Miraculous, Strange Creatures & Unusual Events, Time in Disarray, Inner Space: The Universe, and The World of Tomorrow. It features contributions from well-known authors. The constant shifting between topics is noted as frustrating, but the overall effect is entertaining, making it a valuable addition to 'great mystery compendiums'.

News and Announcements

Northern UFO News - Issue 100

Northern UFO News celebrates its 100th issue, noting its improved quality, expanded content, and new cover. Subscriptions are available for £4.20 for four litho issues plus two duplicated A4 issues, with applications to be sent to Jenny Randles.

Colin Birch's VHS Video

Colin Birch offers a VHS video recording of the HORIZON documentary on UFOs for private viewing, with the request that full postage costs be paid.

BUFORA Third International UFO Congress

BUFORA has announced speakers for its third International UFO Congress in August 1983, including Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Dr. Stanton T. Friedman, and Dr. Harley Rutledge from the USA, and Hilary Evans, Dr. Susan Blackmore, Jenny Randles, and Paul Devereux from the UK. Other international speakers include Dr. Alex Kuel (Austria), Bertil Kuhlemann (Sweden), and Per Andersen (Denmark). Further details can be obtained from John Shaw.

Back Issue Service

PROBE magazine offers several back issues for sale at their original prices, with specific details on pricing for Volume 1, Number 3, and Volume 2. There are only six copies left of Vol 1, No 3. The address for ordering is on page 1.

Joint Publication

Also available is the SCUFORI/PROBE joint publication, 'UFO/IFO: A Process of Elimination', priced at 80p plus postage and packing. Orders can be sent to SCUFORI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue primarily focuses on reviewing books and publications that explore UFO phenomena, Earth energy, and related mysteries. There is a clear interest in scientific and critical analysis, as seen in the reviews of 'Earth Lights', 'The Science in Science Fiction', and 'Die Nagora Fotoserie'. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and evidence-based approaches, while acknowledging the enduring appeal of unexplained phenomena and the critical perspective on ufology presented by authors like Peter Nicholls. The magazine also serves as a platform for announcements within the UFO community, such as the BUFORA congress and the availability of back issues of PROBE.