Victorian Police have been forced to issue an apology over the false accusation of a man who was claimed to be the world's first person to test positive in a roadside sting.

Police in 2004 introduced roadside drug testing, which saw John De Jong accused of being the world's first to test positive.

Authorities at the time said that Mr De Jong had tested positive for cannabis.

However a test conducted independently of police authorities found that Mr De Jong had been falsely charged and accused, with no drugs present within his system.

A defamation case against Victorian Police has now been settled, with authorities agreeing to apologise for the proclamation.

"Victoria Police regrets hurt or upset caused by this incident to Mr De Jong and his family," a statement to the family read.

Reports of Mr De Jong's guilt were reported worldwide, as they it was the first instance of someone testing positive for drugs during a roadside check.

The De Jong family's lawyer told the ABC that the event had caused significant

"It was very upsetting to him his wife and daughters. He is now relieved that this is over and now wants to move on," lawyer Katalin Blond said.