Indonesia police on alert for US Embassy protest

JAKARTA (AP) - Indonesian leaders and a prominent cleric have urged calm in the world's largest Muslim-majority nation ahead of expected protests over an anti-Islam film that has sparked anger among followers.

Jakarta police spokesman Colonel Rikwanto, who like many Indonesians uses only one name, says the United States (US) Embassy did not request any increased security, but 250 riot police have been put on alert as a precaution.

The embassy issued an email to American citizens saying a demonstration with an estimated 300 people was expected after Friday prayers.

"We advise, as always, that people should avoid large crowds and other gatherings that might turn violent," it said.