The Colares UFO Phenomenon (1977) – The Brazilian “Operation Prato”
Short description of the event
Between October and December 1977, numerous residents of the Brazilian island of Colares reported attacks by luminous, unidentified flying objects. These UFOs directed concentrated beams of light at people, causing health damage such as burns, paralysis, and blood loss. The Brazilian Air Force launched a secret investigation under the codename "Operation Prato" and documented the phenomena in photos, films, and reports. The case is now considered one of the best-documented UFO incidents worldwide.
When and where did this all happen?
The events took place between October and December 1977 on the Brazilian island of Colares in the state of Pará. The city of Belém served as the base for the Brazilian Air Force's Operation Prato.
Main features of the event
Numerous residents reported seeing small, luminous flying objects that frequently appeared to rise from the sea. These objects shot focused beams of light at people, which was locally referred to as "chupa-chupa" because of their supposedly suction-like effect. Victims suffered symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, burns, and blood loss. The Brazilian Air Force subsequently dispatched a team led by Brigadier General Uyrangê Hollanda to film and photograph the objects. Over 500 photographs and numerous eyewitness accounts were collected. Local doctors treated over 80 patients with medically documented symptoms that could not be explained.
Investigation and clarification attempts
Operation Prato was officially terminated in 1978. The documents remained secret for decades until some reports were declassified in the 2000s. The released documents confirm that the Air Force took the events seriously and systematically documented them. Some officers, including Hollanda himself, later publicly admitted to having seen UFOs. Skeptical explanations range from mass hysteria to insect bites to natural electromagnetic phenomena. Yet none of these theories has conclusively explained the case.
List of the most credible witnesses
Brigadier General Uyrangê Hollanda led the military investigation and later openly reported his observations. Shortly after his public statements, he died under unclear circumstances. Numerous residents of Colares consistently reported sightings and attacks. Many of the victims received medical treatment, which further supports the medical aspects of the case. The Brazilian Air Force also officially confirmed the authenticity of the sightings and documentation.
Conclusion on credibility
The combination of military investigation, medical findings, and numerous consistent eyewitness accounts speaks for a high degree of credibility. Even if the origin of the objects remains unclear, the documents prove the reality of the phenomenon.
Credibility: High – Military documented incident with medical reports, numerous witnesses and official acknowledgment, but no definitive explanation.