Residents of Keetmanshoop have united in prayer against crime.

Congregants from various church denominations gathered at the central park on Sunday to pray together.

Addressing the prayer service, Mayor Annelize Knaus, who organized the event, pledged her support to all stakeholders in their efforts to combat crime.

"We are here to seek divine guidance and blessings as we come together in prayer to address the critical issues of crime and violence that affect our town and the beloved ||Kharas Region. We are here to pray for peace, the safety of our families, and a brighter future for all our children."

Also speaking at the gathering was the deputy mayor, McDonald Hanse.

"Let tonight's gathering be a reminder that we are all in this together. We are part of one community, one town, one region, and one nation, and it is up to us to build the future we want to see. The safety, peace, and well-being of our families depend on our collective efforts. Let us continue to support one another, stand together, and take responsibility for the change we wish to see."

Residents are concerned about rising crime rates driven by gang activities and suggested, among other things, a curfew to address what they described as the worsening crime situation in the town.