World / Interpol Interpol Issues Security Alert It's worried about all the recent prison breaks; follows US alerts By John Johnson, Newser Staff Posted Aug 3, 2013 10:10 AM CDT Copied Indonesian soldiers guard the newly-repaired gate of Tanjung Gusta prison that was damaged during a riot that led to the escape of more than 200 prisoners, in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, on July 17. (AP Photo/Binsar Bakkara) Add this to a weekend already filled with security alerts: Interpol is urging countries around the world to show "increased vigilance" because of a recent rash of prison escapes that have freed hundreds of militants in Pakistan, Libya, Iraq, Indonesia, and elsewhere. The global security alert asks for help in trying to determine whether the escapes are being coordinated by al-Qaeda, reports the Guardian. It follows the State Department's global travel alert and its decision to close nearly two dozen embassies and consulates this weekend. (More Interpol stories.) Report an error