OSAKA -- A man tried Tuesday to torch the Osaka branch of Tokai Tokyo Securities Co. in Chuo Ward but instead set himself ablaze before fleeing, police said.

Employees initially thought the man was bringing a delivery, as he made several trips between the door and the counter, carrying in eight 18-liter plastic tanks.

But then he pulled what appeared to be a knife, doused the counter with liquid and flung a towel that he had lighted, police said.