[4] On 25 April 2017, Coligny and nearby Lichtenburg experienced extensive rioting following the death of Matlhomola Jonas Moshoeu / Mosweu (15) from the Scotland informal settlement in Tlhabologang.

The resulting violent protests, looting, and petrol bombing[6] led to the destruction of property and local businesses, predominantly owned by whites, foreigners, and other minorities.

[7] Rian Malan, in an investigation into the causes of the rioting, stated that the unrest was further incited at Moshoeu's funeral by representatives of the SADTU and SANCO trade unions.

[7] On 20 April 2017, two Afrikaner men, Doorewaard and Schutte, encountered Matlhomola Jonas Moshoeu and another boy carrying five stolen sunflower heads.

While en route to the Coligny police station, approximately 3 km from town,[8] Moshoeu reportedly disappeared from the truck's load bed, with the men claiming he had jumped off.

Further incidents of violence occurred after the two co-accused were released on bail, including the torching of a farmhouse, an attack on a photographer, and confrontations between protesters and farmers.

[8] Judge Ronald Hendricks of the High Court in Mahikeng[12] sentenced the two men, Doorewaard and Schutte, to 18 and 23 years respectively, following the acceptance of testimony from the state witness, Mr.