On 25 April 2017, Coligny and nearby Lichtenburg were the scenes of extensive racial rioting following the death of Matlhomola (meaning: 'sorrow') Jonas 'Faki' Moshoeu / Mosweu (15) of the Scotland informal settlement in Tlhabologang, who supposedly died at the hands of two white farm managers at Rietvlei farm. The violent protests, looting and petrol bombing resulted in the destruction of property and local businesses predominantly owned by whites, foreigners and other minorities. Rian Malan, in an investigation into the causes of the rioting, stated that the riots were further incited at Moshoeu's funeral by representatives of the SADTU and SANCO trade unions who were loyal to President Jacob Zuma. A town resident stated that the protesters who torched her house were not locals.