FBI agents conducting investigations into unidentified anomalous phenomena, commonly known as UFOs, are apprehensive about the prospect of losing their positions amidst a potential purge within the FBI targeting officials involved in Jan. 6 cases, as disclosed by sources familiar with the matter.
Concerns and Implications
Several agents within the group investigating Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) also participated in the Jan. 6 cases, raising concerns among them. A questionnaire regarding their involvement in the Capitol attack has been mandated for all agents, fueling fears of a purge orchestrated by the Trump administration, according to the sources, some of whom requested anonymity to discuss internal matters.
Ryan Graves, the executive director of Americans for Safe Aerospace and a former Navy pilot, voiced worries about the potential repercussions on the UAP investigation. He highlighted the critical role of the FBI's UAP Working Group and expressed unease regarding any transition changes that might undermine their efforts.
The existence of this clandestine FBI working group has not been publicly acknowledged previously. Comprising a national program manager and over a dozen employees nationwide, the group dedicates substantial resources to tracking UAPs.
Collaborative Efforts
Graves emphasized his organization's year-long collaboration with the FBI team, facilitating the referral of witnesses, leads, and intelligence to support the bureau's endeavors in safeguarding national security and the aviation industry from unidentified phenomena. He commended the agents for conducting interviews with witnesses and augmenting reports with classified data.
The unique positioning of the FBI Working Group enables them to explore UAP occurrences leveraging their combined law enforcement and intelligence authorities. Any potential removal of key agents could jeopardize the investigation's progress and compromise the administration's commitment to addressing UAP issues.
Government Response and Legislative Actions
While refraining from commenting on internal personnel matters, the FBI reiterated its focus on investigating Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena that pose threats to national security. This includes potential violations of federal law and intelligence gathering to mitigate security risks.
Notably, the Pentagon previously initiated the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, disclosed in 2017, prompting increased scrutiny and legislative efforts to intensify UAP investigations. Former Senator Marco Rubio, now serving as Secretary of State, spearheaded various legislative actions to compel thorough government inquiry into these phenomena.
Political Advocacy and Expert Opinions
Key figures from the Trump administration, including CIA director John Ratcliffe and national security adviser Mike Waltz, have advocated for comprehensive investigations into unidentified aerial objects. Ratcliffe highlighted the abundance of undisclosed sightings by military personnel and emphasized the technological advancements demonstrated by these objects.
Mike Waltz underscored the significance of treating these phenomena with seriousness, acknowledging the potential national security implications. Former Army intelligence officer Caison Best echoed concerns about the impact of dismissing FBI agents involved in UAP investigations, emphasizing the critical role they play in legally addressing these matters.
Stay tuned for further developments on the FBI's UAP investigations and the implications of potential personnel changes on this critical initiative.