In an unfortunate incident that occurred in Aeon Mall Tsurumi Ryokuchi From Osaka, Japan, a 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted arson. The suspect, identified as Toshiyuki Kita (喜多俊之)city resident and part-time employee, allegedly set fire to a bookstore inside the mall last July 10th.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8i9bGw16puQ

Kita allegedly tried to set fire to the bookstore with the intention of distracting employees and customers so he could steal manga books. During the incident, some products inside the store caught fire and automatic sprinklers were activated, causing employees to quickly control the fire. Kita partially denied the allegations, stating: “I wasn't trying to burn down the mall. I wanted a manga. By setting a small fire, he hoped to distract employees and customers so he could steal the book.».

This event occurred in the context of Fifth anniversary of the arson attack on Kyoto Animation Studios in Japan, which generated a wave of indignation on social media. The comments on the internet reflect the frustration and anger of the community:

• «Setting fire to steal? It makes no sense».
• «I can't forgive someone who burns books!».
• «If you want a manga, buy it!».
• «You're 29, not a kid. You should be able to buy a manga.».
• «It's ridiculous for a 29 year old man to do something like this. I should find a way to make money and buy the manga».
• «Even if the arson attempt was unsuccessful, it is still a serious crime. He will face severe punishment… What an idiot.».
• «Being 29 years old… Robbery is one thing, but arson is a much more serious crime. This guy will probably do it again even after he is released».
• «It's scary to think that a 29-year-old would burn down a place just to steal a manga.».

Attempting to burn down an inhabited structure, even if unsuccessful, is a crime and Kita is expected to face serious legal consequences. This incident highlights the need to strengthen security and surveillance in public places to prevent similar acts in the future.

Source: Hachima Kikou