The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) has responded to claims that some of its members were making irregular royalty claims.

FORENSICS

This has prompted the organisation's Board of Directors to commission a forensic investigation into the matter. The forensic investigation was conducted to get full extent clarity of the issue. The report confirmed there are some SAMRO members who have fraudulently claimed royalties that do not belong to them.

THEFT

SAMRO's role is to administer performing rights on behalf of its members, artists, music composers, authors, and publishers. They do this by licensing music users - television, radio broadcasters, retailers, live music venues, promoters, restaurants, and shopping centres. In a recent statement, SAMRO shared a report compiled by independent investigators after making certain recommendations "These recommendations were reviewed and supported by yet another independent third party,' SAMRO Board Chairperson Nicholas Maweni said.

VIOLATION

In his finding, he said it was clear that certain members have violated the SAMRO Code of Conduct which is very clear in providing that members' of SAMRO shall not provide false or misleading information in relation to musical works to SAMRO. "Also, the same Code of Conduct states that members of SAMRO shall not act dishonestly and/or in bad faith to the prejudice of SAMRO, and also members are not to make any intentional or negligent misrepresentation to SAMRO which has the effect of prejudicing SAMRO and/or fellow members and/or prospective members and/or any third party.' 

FAULTS

The statement also acknowledged some weaknesses in internal controls and Management and said they have implemented remedial measures to mitigate such occurrences in the future. The SAMRO members were given a chance to engage with the organisation about the forensic investigation report. "I would like to make it very clear that SAMRO has zero tolerance for fraud ." One cent stolen is one cent too many,' Maweni said. "Anyone caught trying to commit such fraud-related offences at SAMRO will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. We remain adamant about stamping out any forms of criminality within the organisation.'