A San Francisco police officer was asked to leave a bakery because of a strict policy against guns inside the store. The refusal of service has ignited controversy and division with some supporting the establishment, known as Reem’s, and others criticizing it over its decision to turn away a member of law enforcement.

The San Francisco Police Officers Association (SFPOA) posted on the social media platform X, “No cops allowed. That’s the confirmed policy of the bakery chain Reem’s. One of our officers was denied service last weekend because he was in uniform.”

In an email to the union, the Arab bakery confirmed the refusal of service saying, “At Reem’s we do have a policy to not serve anyone that is armed in a uniform. All officers are welcome to come to our establishment when they are off duty – and not armed.”

But the San Francisco police union said the bakery has lost its business.

“We are not asking Reem’s or any business with a ‘bigoted policy’ to serve our officers. We’re asking them to own their discriminatory policy and put up a sign so we know not to spend money in your establishment on – or off – duty,” the SFPOA said.

After news spread online of the bakery’s refusal to serve on-duty police officers, those on social media took sides.

In an Instagram post, Reem’s justified its position.

“At Reem’s, we aim to provide a space where people can eat delicious Arab food and work together to strengthen our community, without fear of violence or harassment.”