Harsh Vardhan Jain claimed to be the Indian ambassador for various non-existent countries, including “West Arctica, Saborga, Poulvia and Lodonia”.

He allegedly used his fake diplomatic credentials to exploit people to whom he promised jobs in foreign countries, The Times of India reports.

To support his claims, he allegedly used doctored photos purporting to show him meeting with India’s prime minister and president.

Police also seized four vehicles which allegedly had fake diplomatic licence plates, and 12 allegedly forged diplomatic passports from the four fake micronations.

Amitabh Yash, additional director general of police in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, said Jain was arrested for “running a bogus embassy from a rented house”.

Further investigations are ongoing.