DUKE: CIA File Swipe

Published: Friday, May 15, 2026 at 10:00 am

CIA Under Fire Over Alleged Document Seizure

Washington, D.C. - The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is under fire following allegations of seizing sensitive documents related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the MKUltra program. The controversy centers around claims that the agency removed files being reviewed for declassification by the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), Tulsi Gabbard's team.

The allegations surfaced after CIA whistleblower James Erdmann III testified before the Senate Homeland Security Committee. Erdmann claimed the CIA took back 40 boxes of JFK and MKUltra files. He also alleged the agency monitored the computer and phone use of Gabbard's investigators. These investigators were reportedly probing an alleged cover-up of intelligence related to the origins of COVID-19.

The CIA has responded to the allegations. A spokesperson, Liz Lyons, downplayed the importance of Erdmann's testimony, characterizing it as "dishonest political theater." The agency also reiterated its assessment that COVID-19 likely originated from a lab leak.

Reports indicate the documents were taken from the National Reconnaissance Office last year. They have not been returned to the DNI. Former CIA officer John Kiriakou stated that the CIA cannot overrule the DNI or the president on declassification. Representative Anna Paulina Luna has threatened to subpoena the agency if the files are not returned within 24 hours.

BNN's Perspective:

This situation raises serious questions about transparency and accountability within the intelligence community. While the CIA's concerns about the origins of COVID-19 are understandable, the alleged seizure of documents and monitoring of investigators is concerning. It is crucial that the relevant authorities thoroughly investigate these allegations and ensure that the public has access to information of historical significance. The public deserves to know the truth, and the government should be committed to transparency.

Tags: CIA, JFK, MKUltra, documents, declassification, Tulsi Gabbard, James Erdmann III, Senate Homeland Security Committee, COVID-19, whistleblower, National Reconnaissance Office, John Kiriakou, Anna Paulina Luna, intelligence, cover-up, lab leak, investigation, transparency, accountability

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