Gary Webb, 60, spent a night in the police cells and three in jail in 2015 even though he showed officers from Police Scotland evidence he was not the man they were looking for.

Mr Webb, from Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries and Galloway, told the Sunday Post that the police had his fingerprints and knew he was not the right man.

He said: “The officers didn’t make mistakes in the course of their duties – they lied and tried to cover it up, and there’s lots of evidence to prove this.

“I was at home with my wife, then being held in cuffs, with no-one believing who I was and facing the worst kind of criminal charges imaginable.

“I thought I was going insane. How could no-one believe I was me? I experienced things I should never have had to. I had to leave my work as my mental health was affected by everything.”

Mr Webb said a photo of the suspect was held next to his face, with detectives deciding they were the same person.

He spent three nights at Addiewell Prison, West Lothian before being let go – without any explanation or apology.

He contacted the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner after an internal investigation dismissed his complaint.

Five officers were arrested and reported to the Crown Office – though it was decided later that none would face prosecution.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Speirs said: “We recognise the significant impact this incident and our poor initial response had on Mr Webb and, following the conclusion of legal proceedings, will seek to discuss these matters with him and offer an unreserved apology.

“The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) instructed PIRC to investigate the circumstances and the COPFS has instructed there should be no criminal proceedings.

“Our officers and staff work with commitment and professionalism day in, day out, to provide a high quality policing service for the public.

“When learning opportunities are identified, Police Scotland is committed to supporting officers and staff who have acted in good faith. However we will not comment on internal misconduct matters.”

Gordon Dalyell, partner at Digby Brown, which acted for Mr Webb, said: “The arrest and continued detention of Mr Webb was nothing short of outrageous.

“The life of an innocent man was completely ruined because of the deliberate and malign actions of police officers who are meant to keep people safe.

“I would like to think an inquiry will occur in due course to ensure innocent people are not illegally detained and Police Scotland staff who act illegally will be held accountable.”